A new monkey lymphotropic papovavirus: characterization of the virus and evidence of a related virus in humans.

The biological properties of a new lymphotropic papovavirus have been described. The virus replicates only in certain human and monkey B lymphoblastoid cell lines and appears to have a strict requirement for dividing cells in order to grow. Human T or null cells do not support its growth. Serologic evidence has been presented to show that virtually all primates, including man, are infected with viruses similar or identical to the African green monkey lymphotropic papovavirus. Approximately 30% of normal adults have antibody to LPV. This antibody has been shown to be specific since it neutralizes LPV and immuno-precipitates the major viral capsid protein. Preliminary seroepidemiologic studies have not revealed any association of LPV to human disease, but further, more detailed investigations are necessary to assess its importance in humans.