Abstract
The mechanisms underlying impaired host resistance of the fetus and newborn infant to virus infections are poorly understood. Immaturity of the IF system has been suggested as one major determinant of this enhanced susceptibility. Our previous studies demonstrated that the third trimester (140–117 days) fetal lamb (normal gestation 150 days) produced markedly higher levels of serum IF (27,000–250,000 units/ml) than adult sheep (180–250 μ/ml) following intravenous (IV) inoculation with Chikungunya virus (CV). The present report extends these studies to fetuses in the second and first trimester, the period during which greatest damage from virus infection occurs. Second and third trimester fetuses were inoculated by the IV, and first trimester by the intraperitoneal route. Highest IF titers (μ/ml of serum or gram of tissue) were present 2–4 hours following inoculation:
During the second trimester, fetel animals (68–97 days) continue to produce high levels of IF. Although fetal immaturity is the likey explanation for the significantly lower levels of IF observed in the first trimester animals, the route of inoculation could be a factor. The data clearly indicate, however, that the capacity to produce interferon is present during early stages of fetal development.
Article PDF
Author information
Authors and Affiliations
Rights and permissions
About this article
Cite this article
Overall, J., Glasgow, L. Host resistance of virus infection in the fetus: I. Interferon (IF) production. Pediatr Res 5, 403–404 (1971). https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197108000-00136
Issue Date:
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1203/00006450-197108000-00136