Role of Langerhans cells in the infection of the guinea-pig epidermis with foot-and-mouth disease virus

Abstract
In guinea-pig infected with foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV), Langerhans cells in the foot pads increase in number and show viral antigens 24 hours post-inoculation, preceding appearance of virus in epithelial cells and vesiculation. This observation suggests that Langerhans cells may be engaged in virus transport from the blood to the non vascularized epidermis.