IFN-gamma production during initial infection determines the outcome of reinfection with respiratory syncytial virus.

ABSTRACT:

Rationale

Severe respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) bronchiolitis has been associated with deficient IFN-gamma production in humans, but the role of this cytokine in determining the outcome of reinfection is unknown.

Objectives

To define the role of IFN-gamma in the development of RSV-mediated airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) and lung histopathology in mice.

Methods

Wild-type (WT) and IFN-gamma knockout mice were infected with RSV in the newborn or weaning stages and reinfected 5 weeks later. Airway responses were assessed on Day 6 after the primary or secondary infection.

Measurements and main results

Both WT and IFN-gamma knockout mice developed similar levels of AHR and airway inflammation after primary infection. After reinfection, IFN-gamma knockout mice, b

SUBMITTER: Lee YM 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC2204078 | biostudies-literature | 2008 Jan

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature