Induction of latent Herpes simplex virus type 2 infection in human cervical epithelial cells in vitro.

An in vitro method was used to induce non-productive herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections in human ecto- and endocervical epithelial cells. Adenine arabinoside (ara-A) could prevent the replication of HSV-2 in ecto- and endocervical cells and after removal of ara-A from growth medium a rapid destruction of explants with development of infectious virus was observed. When ara-A was not withdrawn until 4 days or later after in vitro infection the morphological, immunofluorescent and virological studies detected no infections. However, 2-3 weeks after inoculation there were in some cultures morphological as well as immunofluorescent signs of HSV infection without demonstrable infectious virus, indicating an incidental abortive nature of the infective process.