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Corneal Langerhans cell dynamics after herpes simplex virus reactivation
J K Miller1, K A Laycock, M M Nash
1Department of Ophthalmology and Visual Sciences, Washington University School of Medicine, St. Louis, MO 63110.
Investigative Ophthalmology & Visual Science
|June 1, 1993
Summary
Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) reactivation causes corneal Langerhans cells (LC) to migrate centrally. Increased LC in the cornea correlates with persistent stromal opacification after UV-B irradiation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Immunology
- Virology
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) establishes latent infections in the eye.
- Reactivation of latent HSV-1 can lead to ocular disease.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate changes in corneal Langerhans cells (LC) distribution after HSV-1 reactivation.
- To understand the role of LC in HSV-1 induced corneal pathology.
Main Methods:
- Mice were infected with HSV-1 to establish latency.
- Viral reactivation was induced using ultraviolet B (UV-B) irradiation.
- Corneal LC migration and associated pathology were monitored.
Main Results:
- UV-B induced HSV-1 reactivation led to LC migration to central corneal epithelium.
- LC numbers peaked at 14 days post-irradiation.
- Corneal opacification and neovascularization correlated with LC migration and T-cell influx.
Conclusions:
- Langerhans cells migrate centrally in the cornea following HSV-1 reactivation.
- A direct correlation exists between corneal LC numbers and persistent stromal opacification.