Evaluation of the therapeutic efficacy of bulk-cultured cytotoxic T lymphocytes in primary murine cytomegalovirus infection

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Authors
Stone, Matthew E.
Advisor
Noble, Roger L.
Issue Date
1991
Keyword
Degree
Thesis (M.S.)
Department
Center for Medical Education
Other Identifiers
Abstract

The most promising therapy for cytomegalovirus (CMV) disease focuses on enhancing the patient’s immunity to viral pathogens. In this investigation, the therapeutic efficacy of bulk-cultured cytotoxic T lymphocytes was examined in primary murine cytomegalovirus infection. Virus-specific cytotoxic T cells (CTL( were generasted using immune spleen cells stimulated with irradiated murine CMV-infected cells. These CTL demonstrated significant cytolytic activity in a chromium-release assay. They were administered to mice infected with a lethal dose of murine CMV. The group receiving 107 CTL had a 50% reduction of mortality and lost 10% less weight. Virus titer of mice who received 107 CTL decreased 10 fold in the lungs and spleen and decreased 100 fold in the salivary gland. However, the therapy failed to decrease serum aminotransferase levels or restore lymphocyte blastogenic responsiveness. Although the mechanism is unclear, this therapy was effective in reducing mortality, morbidity, and virus titer in select organs.

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