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Retrovirus expression in normal and pathogenic processes of man
Federation Proceedings
|December 1, 1979
Summary
Human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs) are C-type viruses. While rare in primates, evidence suggests HERVs are expressed in human tissues, potentially influencing gestation and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Genetics
Background:
- C-type viruses are rarely isolated from primates.
- No endogenous C-type virus of humans has been isolated to date.
- Increasing evidence points to C-type viral expression in human tissues.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize evidence for C-type viral antigen expression during human gestation.
- To review C-type viral involvement in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
- To discuss the role of retroviruses in normal and abnormal biological processes.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and data synthesis.
- Summarization of existing evidence on viral antigen expression.
- Discussion of current hypotheses regarding retroviral participation in biological processes.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests C-type viral antigen expression occurs during human gestation.
- C-type viral expression is implicated in the pathogenesis of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE).
Conclusions:
- Retroviruses, including C-type viruses, may play a role in both normal and abnormal human biological processes.
- Further research is warranted to understand the full impact of endogenous retroviral expression in humans.