Simulating Epstein-Barr virus infection with C-ImmSim.
basic_science · Level V
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Abstract
Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) infects greater than 90% of humans benignly for life but can be associated with tumors. It is a uniquely human pathogen that is amenable to quantitative analysis; however, there is no applicable animal model. Computer models may provide a virtual environment to perform experiments not possible in human volunteers. We report the application of a relatively simple stochastic cellular automaton (C-ImmSim) to the modeling of EBV infection. Infected B-cell dynamics in the acute and chronic phases of infection correspond well to clinical data including the establishment of a long term persistent infection (up to 10 years) that is absolutely dependent on access of latently infected B cells to the peripheral pool where they are not subject to immunosurveillance. In the absence of this compartment the infection is cleared. The latest version 6 of C-ImmSim is available under the GNU General Public License and is downloadable from www.iac.cnr.it/~filippo/cimmsim.html
Medical subject headings
- Epstein-Barr Virus Infections
- Herpesvirus 4, Human
- Immunity, Innate
- Models, Immunological
- T-Lymphocytes