Predominant Infection of CD150+ Lymphocytes and Dendritic Cells during Measles Virus Infection of Macaques

• DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.0030178
• Publication Date: 2007-11-09T20:03:59Z
• Authors: Rik L de Swart; Martin Ludlow; Lot de Witte; Yusuke Yanagi; Geert van Amerongen; Stephen McQuaid; Selma Yüksel; Teunis B. H Geijt...; W. Paul Duprex; Albert D. M. E Os...
• Keywords: Morbillivirus; CD11c; Viremia

Measles virus (MV) is hypothesized to enter the host by infecting epithelial cells of respiratory tract, followed viremia mediated infected monocytes. However, neither these cell types express signaling lymphocyte activation molecule (CD150), which has been identified as receptor for wild-type MV. We have rhesus and cynomolgus macaques with a recombinant MV strain expressing enhanced green fluorescent protein (EGFP); thus bringing together optimal animal model measles that can be detected unprecedented sensitivity. Blood samples broncho-alveolar lavages were collected every 3 d, necropsies performed upon euthanasia 9 or 15 d after infection. EGFP production MV-infected was visualized macroscopically, in both living sacrificed animals, microscopically confocal microscopy FACS analysis. At peak viremia, fluorescence skin, digestive but most intensely all lymphoid tissues. B- T-lymphocytes CD150 major target Highest percentages (up 30%) lymphocytes tissues, preferentially targeted memory phenotype. Unexpectedly, circulating monocytes did not sustain productive In peripheral large numbers CD11c+ MHC class-II+ myeloid dendritic conjunction T-lymphocytes, suggesting transmission between types. Fluorescent imaging infection non-human primates demonstrated crucial role pathogenesis measles-associated immunosuppression.