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Persistence of the D variant of encephalomyocarditis virus in the ICR-Swiss mouse
1Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Wright State University School of Science and Mathematics, Dayton, Ohio 45435.
Abstract:
The D variant of encephalomyocarditis virus (EMCV-D) is used in the murine model to study virus-induced, acute-onset diabetes mellitus (IDDM) and myocarditis. In this model, viral replication and disease occur within seven days post infection (p.i.), and by Day 10 p.i., no infectious virus is detectable. The present study examined the possibility that EMCV-D persists in ICR-Swiss mice after the acute infection is resolved. The data show that viral antigen is detected at 28 days p.i. within the pancreatic islets of 8/10 males and 13/14 females, and within the heart valves of all animals tested. Histologic examination of the organs at 28 days p.i. suggests the development of chronic obstructive pancreatitis, and shows almost fully healed lesions in the myocardium. These observations indicate that the murine model for the study of EMCV-D induced IDDM may be extended to investigate chronic pancreatitis and heart-valve disease.
Insights
Encephalomyocarditis virus D variant (EMCV-D) persists in mice long after acute infection resolves, detected in pancreatic islets and heart valves. This suggests the murine model can study chronic pancreatitis and heart-valve disease.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathology
Background:
- Encephalomyocarditis virus D variant (EMCV-D) is a murine model for acute diabetes and myocarditis.
- Viral replication and disease resolve within 10 days post-infection (p.i.) in this model.
- The potential for persistent EMCV-D infection after acute resolution is unknown.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the persistence of EMCV-D in ICR-Swiss mice after the acute phase of infection.
- To determine if viral antigen remains detectable in organs beyond the acute infection period.
Main Methods:
- Mice were infected with EMCV-D.
- Viral antigen detection in pancreatic islets and heart valves at 28 days p.i.
- Histologic examination of pancreatic and myocardial tissues at 28 days p.i.
Main Results:
- Viral antigen was detected in pancreatic islets of 8/10 males and 13/14 females at 28 days p.i.
- Viral antigen was detected in heart valves of all tested animals at 28 days p.i.
- Histology revealed chronic obstructive pancreatitis and healed myocardial lesions.
Conclusions:
- EMCV-D persists in pancreatic islets and heart valves of mice after acute infection.
- The murine model for EMCV-D induced diabetes can be extended to study chronic pancreatitis.
- This model is also suitable for investigating chronic heart-valve disease induced by EMCV-D.
