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Updated: Jul 16, 2026
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A Primary Neuron Culture System for the Study of Herpes Simplex Virus Latency and Reactivation
Published on: April 2, 2012
Chronic herpesvirus reactivation occurs in aging
Raymond P Stowe1, Elena V Kozlova, Deborah L Yetman
1Department of Pathology, University of Texas Medical Branch, 301 University Boulevard, Galveston, TX 77555, United States. rpstowe@microgenlabs.com <rpstowe@microgenlabs.com>
Experimental Gerontology
|March 6, 2007
Summary
Elderly individuals experience increased Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV) reactivation due to a weakened immune system. This suggests chronic viral shedding rather than latent infections in older adults.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Gerontology
Background:
- The aging immune system exhibits CD8+ T cell clonal expansions, with a significant portion targeting Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and cytomegalovirus (CMV).
- It remains unclear whether these expansions result from heightened viral reactivation or cumulative effects over time.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate and compare herpesvirus reactivation in young and elderly individuals co-infected with EBV and CMV.
- To determine if immune senescence impacts the control of EBV and CMV infections.
Main Methods:
- Utilized molecular and serological techniques to assess viral reactivation.
- Quantified EBV and CMV DNA levels in blood and urine.
- Analyzed CD8+ T cell responses against EBV structural antigens and gene expression of viral structural genes.
Main Results:
- Elderly subjects showed significantly increased frequency and magnitude of EBV and CMV reactivation.
- CMV DNA was commonly detected in urine, and EBV load in peripheral blood was elevated in the elderly.
- EBV DNA in plasma and transcription of late structural genes were frequent in the elderly, alongside EBV-specific CD8+ T cells. Younger controls lacked these markers.
Conclusions:
- The aged immune system loses the ability to control EBV and CMV reactivation.
- Reactivation of EBV and CMV in the elderly may represent a chronic shedding state rather than traditional latency.
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