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Lower limb paralysis induced in mice by a temperature-sensitive mutant of Moloney leukemia virus
Journal of the National Cancer Institute
|July 1, 1977
Abstract:
A temperature-sensitive mutant of Moloney murine leukemia virus defective in an early function and injected into newborn mice produced lower limb paralysis. Susceptible mice were inbred strains CFW/D, CBA/H, C3H/Bi/Ka, and outbred NIH Swiss stock. Inbred W/Fu rats and C57BL/Ka mice did not develop the paralysis, though the latter were infected with virus; the sera from these mice produced paralysis in susceptible CFW mice.
Insights
A temperature-sensitive Moloney murine leukemia virus mutant caused paralysis in newborn mice. Resistance in some mouse strains and rats suggests genetic factors influence susceptibility to this viral infection.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- Moloney murine leukemia virus (MMLV) is an oncogenic retrovirus.
- Viral mutations can alter pathogenicity and host tropism.
- Understanding host-virus interactions is crucial for disease control.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the pathogenicity of a temperature-sensitive MMLV mutant.
- To identify host factors influencing susceptibility to MMLV-induced paralysis.
- To explore immune responses in resistant hosts.
Main Methods:
- Injection of a temperature-sensitive MMLV mutant into newborn mice of various strains.
- Observation and recording of clinical signs, specifically lower limb paralysis.
- Infection of resistant mouse strains and rats to assess viral replication and immune response.
Main Results:
- Newborn mice of susceptible strains (CFW/D, CBA/H, C3H/Bi/Ka, NIH Swiss) developed lower limb paralysis after MMLV infection.
- Inbred W/Fu rats and C57BL/Ka mice showed resistance to paralysis despite viral infection.
- Sera from infected, resistant C57BL/Ka mice induced paralysis in susceptible CFW mice, suggesting immune-mediated mechanisms.
Conclusions:
- The temperature-sensitive MMLV mutant is neurovirulent, causing paralysis in susceptible mouse strains.
- Genetic background significantly influences susceptibility to MMLV-induced paralysis.
- Immune factors in resistant hosts may play a role in protection or disease modulation.