Key result
Marek's disease herpesvirus infection induces atherosclerosis in chickens regardless of cholesterol levels.
Why the study?
The potential role of herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis was suggested by cholesterol crystals observed in herpesvirus-infected cell cultures and required experimental demonstration.
Does Marek's disease herpesvirus infection induce atherosclerosis in chickens?
Population
Genetically selected, specific pathogen-free chickens
Comparison
MDV infection with and without cholesterol feeding vs uninfected birds with and without cholesterol feeding
Design
Controlled experimental study fulfilling Koch's postulates
Follow-up
7 months
Authors
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No immediate clinical implications; leaves open herpesvirus contribution to human atherosclerosis.
Does Marek's disease herpesvirus infection induce atherosclerosis in chickens?
Demonstrates in a chicken model that herpesvirus infection can induce atherosclerosis, suggesting a potential viral role in the pathogenesis of the disease.
Fabricant et al. (1999) studied Atherosclerosis. Marek's disease herpesvirus (MDV) infection vs. Uninfected birds was evaluated on Gross and microscopic arterial lesions. Marek's disease herpesvirus infection induced atherosclerotic lesions in both normocholesterolemic and hypercholesterolemic chickens, whereas uninfected birds developed no lesions.