Respiratory syncytial virus exhibits differential tropism for distinct human placental cell types with Hofbauer cells acting as a permissive reservoir for infection

Respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) is capable of transient viremia and extrapulmonary dissemination. Recently, this virus has been identified in fetal cord blood, suggesting the possibility of in utero acquisition in humans. Here, we assess permissivity and kinetics of RSV replication in primary human placental cells, examine their potential to transfer this infection to neighboring cells, and measure the inflammatory response evoked by the virus.

This study demonstrates that RSV can replicate in human placenta, exhibits differential tropism for distinct placental cell types, can be stored and transferred to neighboring cells by Hofbauer cells, and elicits an inflammatory response. It also supports the hypothesis that this respiratory virus can be vertically transferred to the fetus and potentially affect its development and the outcome of pregnancies.