To date, biologists have typically had to study the progress of a virus through indirect means, such as studying the antibodies — actually tracking the viruses themselves has been difficult. However, researchers say they’ve found a way to follow the progress of a virus in real time. By using multiphoton microscopy in tandem with a laser and fluorescence, the team monitored influenza virus in a mouse’s trachea (where the transluency made imaging possible) through the infection and immune system response.
As you might guess, the infection played out like a short war. The immune system’s T-cells took a while to respond (about 5 days after initial infection), but they were merciless when they arrived, slowing down by the 7th day and methodically killing off infected cells. They even stayed around for a few days in a heightened state to keep watch for any new threats. This was all expected, but rare to see in action.
The live study has already taught scientists some lessons. A lower virus dose doesn’t automatically lead to fewer T-cells fighting back, for one thing — viruses may affect an immune system’s response, but they don’t define it. You may see far larger results in the future, though. Real-time data could lead to more effective treatments for viruses, triggering swifter, stronger immune responses. You might not have to spend ages grappling with that flu or cough.
Via: Popular Science
Source: PLOS Pathogens
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