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Contamination of mouse-adapted influenza virus with Sendai virus

K Takimoto1, K Nakayama, M Yabe

  • 1Division of Experimental Animal Research, National Institute of Infectious Diseases, Tokyo, Japan.

Insights

Sendai virus (HVJ) contamination in a lab rack was traced to a specific influenza virus strain (Inf.V A). Treating the virus with anti-HVJ serum neutralized contamination, ensuring safe experimental use and preventing further spread.

Area of Science:

  • Veterinary Virology
  • Laboratory Animal Science
  • Infectious Disease Research

Background:

  • Sendai virus (HVJ) contamination poses a significant risk in laboratory animal facilities.
  • Contamination was identified in a flow rack used for influenza virus (Inf.V) experiments.
  • Detection of anti-HVJ antibodies in mice indicated widespread exposure.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To identify the specific influenza virus strain responsible for Sendai virus (HVJ) contamination.
  • To develop and validate a method to eliminate HVJ contamination from experimental materials.
  • To ensure the safety and integrity of laboratory animal experiments.

Main Methods:

  • Experimental infection of mice with different strains of mouse-adapted influenza virus (Inf.V).
  • Detection of anti-HVJ antibodies in experimentally infected mice.
  • Treatment of suspected contaminated virus suspensions with anti-HVJ mouse serum.

Main Results:

  • Anti-HVJ antibodies were detected in 35/42 mice exposed to the contaminated rack.
  • All mice infected with Inf.V strain A showed anti-HVJ antibodies by day 28 post-infection.
  • Treatment with anti-HVJ serum rendered the Inf.V A suspension free of HVJ, permitting its use.

Conclusions:

  • Influenza virus A strain was identified as the source of HVJ contamination.
  • Treatment with specific antiserum is an effective method to eliminate HVJ contamination.
  • Implementing this method successfully prevented further HVJ contamination in the facility.

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