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gamma-Herpesvirus-induced protection against bacterial infection is transient

Eric J Yager1, Frank M Szaba, Larry W Kummer

  • 1Trudeau Institute, Saranac Lake, New York 12983, USA.

Viral Immunology
|February 13, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Latent gamma-herpesvirus-68 (gammaHV68) infection in mice offers temporary protection against Listeria monocytogenes. This suggests herpesvirus latency can have both beneficial and harmful health effects.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Infectious Diseases

Background:

  • Herpesviruses establish lifelong latency, linked to diverse pathological outcomes.
  • Some herpesviruses may also confer resistance to other infections.
  • Murine gamma-herpesvirus-68 (gammaHV68) is a model for human herpesviruses.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the protective effects of latent gammaHV68 infection against subsequent bacterial challenge.
  • To determine the duration of any observed protective effect.

Main Methods:

  • Mice were infected with gammaHV68 to establish latency.
  • Latently infected mice were subsequently challenged with Listeria monocytogenes.
  • Survival rates and bacterial loads were assessed.

Main Results:

  • Latent gammaHV68 infection significantly enhanced resistance to Listeria monocytogenes.
  • This protective effect was transient, diminishing after a few months post-infection.

Conclusions:

  • Latent gammaHV68 infection can transiently boost host defense against bacterial pathogens.
  • Herpesvirus latency exhibits a dual role, potentially offering protection while also posing risks.

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