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Human macrophages are susceptible to coronavirus OC43
1Department of Microbiology, School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, State University of New York at Buffalo 14214, USA.
Abstract:
Adherent adult and cord blood macrophages were infected with human coronavirus OC43 at a multiplicity of 1-1.5 and washed twice to remove unbound virus. Virus progeny was detected in the supernatant on day 1 and peaked at 2-3 days at an average titer of 5 +/- 3.9 x 10(6) pfu/ml from seven samples. Viral RNA was detected by nested set RT-PCR in infected macrophages incubated for 48 hr. Intracellular viral nucleocapsid was detected in 15% of the cells and surface staining for viral spike antigen was observed using monoclonal antibodies. Amplification of infectious virus and detection viral RNA and antigen synthesis in macrophages in vitro indicates susceptibility to OC43 virus.
Insights
Human coronavirus OC43 (OC43) infects macrophages, leading to viral RNA and antigen synthesis. This study demonstrates macrophage susceptibility to OC43 infection in vitro, confirming viral replication.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Macrophages play a crucial role in the innate immune response to viral infections.
- Human coronavirus OC43 (OC43) is a common respiratory pathogen, but its interaction with macrophages requires further elucidation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the susceptibility of human macrophages to OC43 infection.
- To characterize viral replication and antigen expression within infected macrophages.
Main Methods:
- Adherent adult and cord blood macrophages were infected with OC43.
- Viral progeny in supernatant was quantified using plaque assays.
- Viral RNA detection via nested set RT-PCR.
- Intracellular nucleocapsid and surface spike antigen detection using immunofluorescence and monoclonal antibodies.
Main Results:
- Infectious virus progeny was detected in the supernatant, peaking at 2-3 days post-infection.
- Viral RNA was confirmed in infected macrophages after 48 hours.
- Intracellular viral nucleocapsid and surface viral spike antigen were observed in a subset of infected cells.
Conclusions:
- Human macrophages are susceptible to OC43 infection in vitro.
- Macrophages support OC43 replication, evidenced by infectious virus production, RNA synthesis, and antigen expression.