Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 3, 2026

Ex Vivo Infection of Human Lymphoid Tissue and Female Genital Mucosa with Human Immunodeficiency Virus 1 and Histoculture
Published on: October 12, 2018
Herpes simplex virus and HIV-1: deciphering viral synergy
Philippe Van de Perre1, Michel Segondy, Vincent Foulongne
1EA 4205 Transmission, Pathogenèse et Prévention de l'Infection par le VIH, Université Montpellier 1 and Laboratories of Bacteriology and Virology, CHU Montpellier, Montpellier, France. p-van_de_perre@chu-montpellier.fr
Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 infection can increase HIV-1 replication. Suppressing HSV-2 through treatment reduces HIV-1 shedding in co-infected individuals, highlighting the need for integrated herpesvirus control in HIV care.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Public Health
Background:
- Herpes simplex virus (HSV) type 2 and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) co-infection is common.
- Previous studies suggest a causal link between HSV-2 infection and increased HIV-1 replication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the mechanisms underlying the reciprocal enhancement of HSV-2 and HIV-1 replication.
- To evaluate the impact of suppressive HSV treatment on HIV-1 shedding in co-infected individuals.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on direct and indirect interactions between HSV-2 and HIV-1.
- Analysis of data from randomized controlled trials on HSV suppression and HIV-1 excretion.
Main Results:
- Direct interactions include immune deficiency, mucosal barrier disruption, HSV protein transactivation of HIV-1, and immune modulation.
- Indirect interactions involve vaginal flora disturbances and systemic immune activation.
- Suppressive HSV treatment significantly reduces genital and systemic HIV-1 excretion in co-infected individuals.
Conclusions:
- Controlling HSV-2 and other herpesviruses is crucial for managing HIV-1 replication.
- Integrated strategies for herpesvirus control should be part of comprehensive HIV-1 prevention and care packages.
Related Concept Videos
Herpes
Genital Herpes
Size and Structure of Viral Genomes
Retrovirus Life Cycles
Viral Recombination
Inhibitors of Virion Maturation and Assembly

