Abstract
Experimental infection of gnotobiotic Beagle dogs with neurovirulent R252 canine distemper virus (CDV) resulted in hematogenous dissemination of virus to the central nervous system (CNS). Viral antigen was first detected within CNS capillary and venular endothelia and/or perivascular astrocytic foot processes and pericytes. The number of primary infection sites was evenly distributed throughout the neuraxis. Leukocytic infiltrations followed CNS endothelial cell infection by 1-2 days and were composed of both viral antigen-positive and -negative cells. These results indicate that CDV infection of the CNS is initiated by the interaction of circulating infectious virus with endothelial cells.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
