Respiratory syncytial virus exhibits differential tropism for distinct human placental cell types with Hofbauer cells acting as a permissive reservoir for infection.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is capable of transient viremia and extrapulmonary dissemination. Recently, this virus has been identified in fetal cord blood, suggesting the possibility of in utero acquisition in humans. Here, we assess permissivity and kinetics of RSV replication in primary human placental cells, examine their potential to transfer this infection to neighboring cells, and measure the inflammatory response evoked by the virus.

Methods and findings

Human placental villus tissue was collected immediately upon delivery and processed for isolation of placental cytotrophoblast, fibroblast, and macrophage (Hofbauer) cells. Isolated cells were infected with a recombinant RSV-A2 strain (rrRSV) expressing red fluorescent protein (RFP) and analyzed by fl

SUBMITTER: Bokun V 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC6886783 | biostudies-literature | 2019

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature