Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs restore immune function to respiratory syncytial virus in geriatric cotton rats (Sigmodon hispidus)

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infection is not only a childhood disease, but also a serious health risk for the elderly. We investigated in cotton rats how age affected viral clearance, immune responses, and whether pharmacological intervention was beneficial. Our results demonstrated that in geriatric animals, virus grew to similar titers, but with delayed clearance, compared to adult animals. After primary infection with RSV, geriatric animals were susceptible to secondary infection and results indicated a defective humoral immune response. Depletion of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTL) during primary infection delayed clearance, indicating the necessary role of CTL. Pharmacological intervention through nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory ibuprofen resulted in faster viral clearance and complete protection after immunization. In addition, the CTL response in the presence of ibuprofen seemed to be restored. It appears that in geriatric animals, immune functions are not as effective as in adult animals and that anti-inflammatory therapy may restore effective immune function.

Automated summary

Research revealed that in geriatric animals, RSV virus grew to similar titers but with delayed clearance, susceptibility to secondary infection and defective humoral immune response were observed. Depletion of cytotoxic T lymphocytes was necessary for virus inhibition, and ibuprofen accelerated viral clearance and restored CTL response.