LEUKOCYTES AND INTERFERON IN THE HOST RESPONSE TO VIRAL INFECTIONS

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Abstract
The role of leukocytes or other phagocytic cells of the reticuloendothelial system in host defense in viral infections has never been fully defined. Evidence of interf eron production by these cells suggests a mechanism by which they may contribute to host defenses. A model was developed to study this phenomenon by use of an in vitro system which eliminates the host immune mechanism. Vaccinia virus infection of mouse-embryo fibroblasts (MEF) is characterized by the initiation of plaque-like foci of cell destruction (CPE). Progression of infection may be quantitated by counting these plaques and assaying supernatant fluid for virus. The addition of leukocytes to a culture resulted in a significant suppression of viral proliferation and CPE. Interferon could be demonstrated in both control and leukocyte cultures; however, a significantly greater amount was present in cultures to which leukocytes were added. The failure of mouse leukocytes to protect vaccinia-infected chick-embryo cell cultures suggests that the observed protection was species-specific and mediated by interf eron. Results of these studies support the hypothesis that leukocytes may play a role in the host''s capacity to control and eventually eliminate a virus infection through interferon production.