Pathogenic Effects and Pathogenesis Processes in Murine Cytomegalovirus Infected Rat Corneal Endothelial Cells.

Purposes: To understand the pathogenesis in rat corneal endothelial cells (RCECs) induced by murine cytomegalovirus infection .

Methods: , cultured RCECs were infected with murine cytomegalovirus strain K181-eGFP (MCMV-eGFP). , experimental rats received intracameral injection of MCMV-eGFP. Replicating viruses and morphology change of RCECs were evaluated at several time points.

Results: , RCECs became necrosis at 6hpi. MCMV-eGFP began replicating at 12hpi. , the inflammatory reactions appeared at 12hpi, peaked at 72hpi and gradually subsided. Replicating MCMV-eGFP appeared in RCECs from 24hpi to 72hpi. RCECs enlarged after 12hpi and capsids in the nuclei were visible at 72hpi. A monocyte was found on a corneal endothelium at 120hpi.

Conclusions: RCECs were sensitive to MCMV . Replication of MCMV-eGFP began at 24hpi and ended after 72hpi, later than the inflammatory reactions.