IFN-gamma production in tissues of mice during acute infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus.

As shown by a single-cell solid-phase ELISA, splenocytes as well as liver lymphoid cells from unmanipulated specific-pathogen free mice synthesized and released IFN-gamma. Synthesis of this lymphokine could not be demonstrated either on the transcriptional level by Northern blotting or immunocytochemically. Thus, IFN-gamma is constitutively produced in mice, although in low quantities. During acute infection with lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus, IFN-gamma mRNA became detectable in spleen and brain but not in the liver. In spleens and livers of these mice, the numbers of cells synthesizing the lymphokine were increased and many were seen in foot tissue undergoing a delayed-type hypersensitivity reaction after intraplantar inoculation of the virus. In contrast, few IFN-gamma-producing cells were found in the inflammatory infiltrates of leptomeninges and choroid plexus after intracerebral infection.