Xenopus laevis tadpoles anti-FV3 IFNλ response

What is it about?

Anuran tadpoles, including those of X. laevis are particularly susceptible to infection by ranavirus such as FV3. We investigated the respective roles of amphibian type I and type III interferon (IFN and IFNλ, respectively) during FV3 infections. Notably, tadpoles mounted timely IFNλ gene expression responses to FV3 more robust than adults, contrasting with poorer IFN responses in tadpoles than adults. However, a recombinant X. laevis (rXl)IFNλ conferred less protection of tadpoles and the A6 c

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Why is it important?

Emerging infectious diseases caused by ranaviruses such as Frog virus 3 (FV3) are significantly contributing to the worldwide amphibian decline, with anuran tadpoles being particularly vulnerable compared to adult frogs. Grayfer et al. (# ) show that instead of type I interferon responses of adults, Xenopus laevis tadpoles mount timely and robust type III interferon responses, which are ablated and overcome by FV3. These results challenge the notion of inefficient tadpole antiviral immunity and