Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 10, 2026

Recurrent Herpetic Stromal Keratitis in Mice, a Model for Studying Human HSK
Published on: December 18, 2012
The Holy Grail: immune control of human herpes simplex virus infection and disease
1Centre for Virus Research, Westmead Millennium Institute, and University of Sydney, Sydney, Australia. tony_cunningham@wmi.usyd.edu.au
Abstract:
To develop an effective vaccine against genital herpes, the mechanisms of immune control of primary and recurrent genital herpes need to be elucidated thoroughly in humans, using animal models as a guide. The types of effector cells and their main viral target/stimulator proteins are especially important. In human recurrent herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections, the major effectors are CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes and T-helper 1 cytokines, interferon-in particular. Glycoprotein D, B2-tegument proteins and proteins produced early in viral replication are stimulatory for CD4 and CD8 lymphocytes, respectively. These in vitro results are consistent with the findings of the most recent HSV vaccine trials.
Related Concept Videos
Immune Response Against Viral Pathogens
NK Cells
NK cells are a crucial part of our innate immune system, acting as the first line of defense against viral infections. These cells can recognize and kill infected cells without prior exposure to the virus, effectively slowing down the spread of infection. Additionally, NK cells produce proinflammatory...
Herpes
Cytomegalovirus Disease
Genital Herpes
Inhibitors of Viral Protein Synthesis
Antiviral Nucleoside Inhibitors

