Microinfusion into the rat brain of antibodies against Semliki Forest Virus produces changes in behavioral response to apomorphine

Anti-SFV antibodies generated during SFV infection may affect CNS function due to cross-reactivity with a peptide of oligodendrocyte myelin glycoprotein. To explore this possibility, total IgG from SFV immunized or normal control rabbits was unilaterally microinfused into the subthalamic region of normal rat brain. Behavior of the IgG-infused rats was determined using a bioassay, measuring rotational locomotion following systemic injection of apomorphine. Anti-SFV IgG-infused rats demonstrated a significantly increased (p < 0.005) ipsilateral turning response compared to control rats, persisting for at least a month. Results suggest that brain cross-reactive antibodies in anti-SFV IgG may affect brain function.