Modifications by sodium auro-thio-malate of the expression of virulence in mice by defined strains of Semliki Forest virus.

Summary The responses of mice to infection by defined virulent or avirulent strains of Semliki Forest virus have been modified by the prior administration i.p. of sodium auro-thio-malate. This resulted in enhancement of the efficiency of infection and later modifications (potentiation) of the outcome of that infection. These distinct changes were associated with an enhanced virus invasion of the brain but not with any detectable depression of the humoral antibody response. These events are considered in relation to the multiple effects of alternative ‘immunosuppressive’ drugs.