The effects of a promoter of cell differentiation and selected hormones on human cytomegalovirus infection using an in vitro cell system.

The influence of factors that can regulate cellular developmental or metabolic processes in host tissue on cytomegalovirus (CMV) replication in vitro was determined. Hydrocortisone treatment of cells before viral infection resulted in a 12- to 13-fold increase in the expression of immediate early proteins at 4 h after virus inoculation. The addition of a phorbol diester 1.5 h after CMV infection resulted in an 8- to 13-fold increase in production of viral progeny. In contrast, beta-human chorionic gonadotropin treatment generally resulted in a 25%-72% suppression of both CMV-specific proteins and progeny. Effects on CMV infection with either progesterone or estradiol were minor and generally suppressive. The stimulating or suppressive effects of these factors on CMV replication in vitro may be important to CMV reactivation in humans. Further study of regulatory factors may lead to the development of therapeutic approaches to the prevention of CMV reactivation in patients at risk for severe disease.