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In vitro infection of human bone marrow by feline leukemia viruses
R A Morgan1, R E Dornsife, W F Anderson
1Molecular Hematology Branch, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, Bethesda, Maryland 20892.
Abstract:
Four subgroup feline leukemia viruses (FeLV) were tested for their ability to infect primary cultures of human bone marrow in vitro. Using three sequential exposures to both concentrated and unconcentrated virus, FeLV infection of human bone marrow was documented by indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA, and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) assays. Based on comparison to known standards, it was estimated that between 5 and 10% of the bulk human marrow culture could be infected by FeLV. Further evidence for FeLV reverse transcription, integration, and expression was obtained using specific PCR assays.
Insights
Feline leukemia viruses (FeLV) can infect human bone marrow cultures in vitro. This study demonstrates FeLV infection, reverse transcription, integration, and expression in human marrow cells.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Hematology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Feline leukemia virus (FeLV) is a retrovirus that affects cats.
- Understanding FeLV's host range and potential for cross-species infection is crucial.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the in vitro infectivity of FeLV subgroups in primary human bone marrow cultures.
- To provide molecular evidence of FeLV infection and replication in human hematopoietic cells.
Main Methods:
- Primary human bone marrow cells were exposed to four FeLV subgroups.
- Infection was assessed using indirect immunofluorescence, ELISA, and PCR assays.
- Specific PCR assays were employed to detect reverse transcription and integration.
Main Results:
- FeLV infection of human bone marrow cultures was successfully documented.
- Estimated infection rate ranged from 5-10% of bulk human marrow culture.
- Evidence for FeLV reverse transcription, integration, and gene expression was confirmed.
Conclusions:
- FeLV demonstrates the ability to infect primary human bone marrow cells in vitro.
- These findings highlight the potential for FeLV to infect human hematopoietic cells, warranting further investigation.