In vivo Junin virus-mouse macrophages interaction

: The role of mononuclear phagocytic cells in extraneural infection of the mouse with Junin virus (JV) was studied. Endpoint susceptibility (4 days of life) was evaluated by intraperitoneal (i.p.) inoculation of suckling mice. By means of immunofluorescence (IF) and C3 receptor assays, it was found that macrophages were permissive to viral replication in vivo and fostered the recruitment of inflammatory cells as evidenced by the absence of C3 marker. In support, in vitro infection failed to induce alterations of this receptor. Throughout, both in vivo and in vitro, there were no signs of C3-mediated phagocytosis. Silica treatment had no effect on either resistance or susceptibility, suggesting that the "macrophage-barrier" failed to hinder or favour the course of disease. Differences with other JV models are discussed.