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Bovine herpesvirus-1 infects activated CD4+ lymphocytes
1Department of Animal Health and Biomedical Sciences, University of Wisconsin-Madison 53706, USA.
The Journal of General Virology
|September 18, 1997
Summary
Bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) infects and kills CD4+ T lymphocytes, leading to immune deficiency. This viral-induced T-cell loss during infection or vaccination may increase susceptibility to secondary infections.
Area of Science:
- Veterinary Virology
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
Background:
- Acute viral infections can cause immune deficiencies.
- Bovine herpesvirus-1 (BHV-1) has been observed to cause lymphocyte death in cell cultures.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify the specific cells infected by BHV-1.
- To elucidate the mechanism by which BHV-1 causes cell death.
Main Methods:
- Two-colour immunofluorescence staining for viral glycoproteins and lymphocyte surface proteins (CD4, CD8).
- Detection of viral gene expression using reverse transcription and PCR.
- Assessment of lymphocyte apoptosis via cell death assays.
Main Results:
- BHV-1 glycoproteins were predominantly expressed on CD4+ T lymphocytes.
- Viral replication was confirmed in CD4+ T lymphocytes.
- Significant lymphocyte apoptosis and CD4+ T-cell loss were observed post-infection.
Conclusions:
- BHV-1 preferentially infects and induces apoptosis in CD4+ T lymphocytes.
- The depletion of CD4+ T cells by BHV-1 may contribute to secondary infections.
- Understanding this mechanism is crucial for managing BHV-1 infections and vaccinations.