Which of the following statements about lymphocytic choriomeningitis (LCM) is False?

• A. It can affect tumor lines in some models
• B. It is a viral infection transmitted by aerosols
• C. It does not affect tumor lines
• D. It is primarily a concern for immunocompromised hosts

Answer: (C)

Lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV) is a rodent-borne arenavirus that can spread in mouse colonies through aerosols and contaminated materials. It can infect a variety of cell types, including tumor cell lines used in research, and this infection can influence tumor growth and the immune environment of tumor models. Because of this, the statement that it does not affect tumor lines is false—the virus can affect tumor cells in some models, which is why it is important to monitor and prevent LCMV in colonies.

The other points are true: LCMV is indeed a viral infection transmitted by aerosols, and it is primarily a concern for immunocompromised hosts, where disease can be more severe.