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Localization of a new enteric non-A, non-B [HEV] virus in target organ liver
H Gupta1, B Iyenger, B N Tandon
1Department of Gastoenterology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi.
Abstract:
Thirteen Macaca mulatta monkeys were used for transmission of enteric non-A, non-B hepatitis virus (HEV) by the portal vein (PV) route. All these animals developed changes which are found in self-limiting acute viral hepatitis e.g. rise in liver enzymes, the presence of HEV specific viral particles in the stool and histological changes in the liver from 21 to 45 days after HEV inoculation. All the animals recovered completely as reflected by normalization of liver enzymes, and regenerative changes in the liver. The present report highlights the ultrastructural changes in the livers of these experimental monkeys. The histopathological changes included infiltration of lymphocytes and polymorphonucleocytes around the necrotic area, swelling of mitochondria, dilation of smooth endoplasmic reticulum (ER), and presence of 27-34 nm virus particles during the acute phase of the disease. In comparison, 9 control monkeys did not show any such histological changes.
Insights
This study details how enteric non-A, non-B hepatitis virus (HEV) causes self-limiting liver disease in rhesus monkeys. Researchers observed viral particles and ultrastructural liver changes during acute infection, with complete recovery noted.
Area of Science:
- Hepatology
- Virology
- Primatology
Background:
- Hepatitis E virus (HEV) is a significant cause of acute viral hepatitis globally.
- Understanding HEV transmission and pathogenesis is crucial for developing effective treatments and prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the ultrastructural changes in the liver of Macaca mulatta monkeys experimentally infected with HEV.
- To characterize the histopathological manifestations of HEV infection in a primate model.
Main Methods:
- Thirteen rhesus monkeys were inoculated with HEV via the portal vein.
- Liver enzymes, viral particles in stool, and liver histology were monitored.
- Ultrastructural examination of liver tissue was performed during the acute phase of infection.
Main Results:
- All inoculated monkeys developed self-limiting acute hepatitis, characterized by elevated liver enzymes and HEV particles in stool.
- Histopathological examination revealed lymphocytic infiltration, mitochondrial swelling, endoplasmic reticulum dilation, and 27-34 nm virus particles in the acute phase.
- Control monkeys showed no significant histological alterations.
Conclusions:
- Experimental HEV infection in rhesus monkeys mimics human self-limiting acute hepatitis.
- Ultrastructural liver changes, including viral particle presence, are characteristic of the acute phase of HEV infection in this model.
- The primate model provides valuable insights into HEV pathogenesis and disease progression.