In vitro infection of murine macrophages with Junin virus

Abstract

Mouse peritoneal macrophages were successfully infected with two strains of Junin virus producing high titers with no apparent cell damage. Infected cultures survived longer than noninfected cultures. The pattern of virus released suggested a persistent infection. Virus replication was delayed in macrophages from mice previously immunized with Junin virus. These results support the opinion that macrophages are targets for virus replication in in vivo infections.