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SIVrcm infection of macaques
1The Aaron Diamond AIDS Research Center, The Rockefeller University, New York, New York 10016, USA. ssmith@adarc.org
Journal of Medical Primatology
|September 25, 1998
Summary
Simian immunodeficiency virus in Red-Capped Mangabeys (SIVrcm) causes chronic infection but is non-pathogenic in macaques. This distinct primate lentivirus shows limited in vitro replication and cytopathic effects.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Primate Lentiviruses
- Infectious Diseases
Background:
- A novel primate lentivirus, SIVrcm, was previously isolated from a Red-Capped Mangabey (RCM) in Gabon.
- SIVrcm is genetically distinct from established HIV-1, HIV-2, and other SIV lineages.
Purpose of the Study:
- To further investigate the in vitro replication characteristics of SIVrcm.
- To evaluate the in vivo pathogenicity and infection course of SIVrcm in macaque models.
Main Methods:
- In vitro replication assays using Molt 4 Clone 8 cells and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from rhesus and humans.
- In vivo infection studies in rhesus and cynomolgous macaques, monitoring for 200 days and one year, respectively.
Main Results:
- SIVrcm demonstrated minimal cytopathic effects in vitro.
- In vivo, SIVrcm established chronic infections in both rhesus and cynomolgous macaques.
- No significant pathogenicity was observed in macaques up to 200 days (rhesus) and one year (cynomolgous) post-infection.
Conclusions:
- SIVrcm establishes a chronic but non-pathogenic infection in macaques.
- The distinct genetic makeup of SIVrcm correlates with its limited in vitro and in vivo pathogenicity.
- Further research into SIVrcm may provide insights into lentiviral evolution and host-pathogen interactions.