The Infection Properties of Trionyx sinensis Hemorrhagic Syndrome Virus and the Antiviral Effect of Curcumin In Vivo

Abstract

Trionyx sinensis hemorrhagic syndrome virus (TSHSV) is an aquatic arterivirus causing a high mortality rate for T. sinensis (Chinese soft-shelled turtle), but the detailed infection properties of TSHSV are unclear, and no effective treatment is available. In this study, cell culture and histopathology were performed to elucidate the infection properties of TSHSV. Furthermore, the anti-TSHSV and immune-enhancing effects of curcumin were evaluated using survival statistics, qPCR, and tissue immunofluorescence. The results demonstrated that TSHSV could proliferate in the spleen cell line of T. sinensis, leading to cytopathic effects. TSHSV damaged the livers, kidneys, and lungs, characterized by cell disintegration and hyperemia. Curcumin at 250 mg/kg improved the survival of T. sinensis, and significantly reduced the viral load in the spleens, kidneys, and lungs. Moreover, curcumin inhibited the mRNA expression of immune-related genes, RSAD2, IFN-γ, and TNF-α (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these results imply that TSHSV is pathogenic to the spleen cell line, liver, spleen, kidney, and lung of T. sinensis. Curcumin effectively inhibits TSHSV and modulates the immune function of T. sinensis, so it holds promise as a means to prevent TSHSV.