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Echovirus type 19 and herpes simplex type 2 infection in human placenta tissue explants
L H Oliveira1, M E Fonseca, M de-Bonis
1Departamento de Virologia, Universidade Federal do Rio de Janeiro, Brasil.
Summary
Echovirus 19 infects and replicates in human placental cells, causing lysis but maintaining tissue structure. Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infection is aborted, despite initial entry and cytopathic effects in trophoblast cells.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Human placental tissue serves as a barrier against pathogen transmission to the fetus.
- Understanding viral interactions with placental cells is crucial for preventing congenital infections.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the susceptibility of human placental tissue to echovirus 19 and herpes simplex type 2 (HSV-2) in vitro.
- To characterize the replication and cytopathic effects of these viruses within placental cells.
Main Methods:
- Light and electron microscopy were employed for ultrastructural analysis.
- Immunofluorescence and autoradiography were used to assess viral replication.
- Virus adsorption studies determined initial infection dynamics.
Main Results:
- Placental tissue was permissive to echovirus 19, leading to trophoblast cell lysis and virion release, with minimal structural damage observed over 48 hours.
- HSV-2 infection was abortive; while trophoblast cells permitted virus adsorption, penetration, and uncoating, a characteristic cytopathic effect was noted despite the lack of productive replication.
Conclusions:
- Echovirus 19 can replicate in human placental cells, potentially posing a risk during pregnancy.
- HSV-2 infection appears to be restricted by placental tissue, suggesting a potential defense mechanism against fetal infection, although cellular damage can still occur.