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Viremia induced by influenza virus
I Mori1, T Komatsu, K Takeuchi
1Department of Microbiology, Fukui Medical School, Japan.
Microbial Pathogenesis
|October 1, 1995
Summary
Influenza A virus RNA was detected in mouse blood and tissues, including lungs and brain, for up to 14 days. Viremia during acute infection may impact influenza pathogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pathogenesis
Background:
- Influenza A virus is a significant human pathogen.
- Understanding viral dissemination and host response is crucial for developing effective treatments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the presence and distribution of influenza A virus RNA in blood and various tissues of infected mice.
- To explore the role of viremia in influenza pathogenesis.
Main Methods:
- Utilized a mouse model of intranasal influenza A/PR/8 virus infection.
- Employed nested polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect viral RNA in blood and tissue samples.
- Administered uv-inactivated virus and hyperimmune serum to assess their effects on viral dissemination and disease.
Main Results:
- Viral RNA was detected in red blood cells from 1-5 days post-inoculation.
- Viral RNA persisted in lungs and brain up to 14 days, and in liver, spleen, kidney, heart, and skeletal muscle up to 7 days.
- Virus-specific messenger RNA expression was transient in these organs; uv-inactivated virus did not cause viremia, and hyperimmune serum prevented pneumonia but not bronchitis.
Conclusions:
- Viremia occurs during the acute phase of influenza infection.
- The influenza virus disseminates to various organs, with transient gene expression.
- Viremia may play a role in the pathogenesis of influenza, potentially originating from infected alveolar capillaries.