Animal models of herpes simplex virus immunity and pathogenesis

Area of Science:

• Virology
• Immunology
• Pathogenesis

Background:

• Herpes simplex viruses (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are common human pathogens causing mucosal lesions and encephalitis.
• HSV infections are difficult to study in humans due to asymptomatic primary infections and the neurotropic nature of the virus.
• Studying HSV latency and reactivation in the central nervous system is challenging without invasive procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review commonly used animal models for studying HSV pathogenesis.
• To examine the establishment, maintenance, and reactivation of HSV latency in these models.
• To compare immune responses during acute infection and latency.

Main Methods:

• Review of scientific literature on animal models for HSV research.
• Analysis of experimental parameters influencing HSV infection course in animal models.
• Focus on immune responses during primary infection and ganglion invasion.

Main Results:

• Animal models have significantly advanced the understanding of HSV biology, pathogenesis, and immunity.
• The choice of animal model, infection route, and viral strain impacts HSV disease progression.
• Insights into immune control of HSV latency and reactivation have been gained through animal studies.

Conclusions:

• Animal models are indispensable for investigating HSV pathogenesis, latency, and immune responses.
• Understanding HSV latency and reactivation is critical for developing effective therapeutic strategies.
• Further research using refined animal models will elucidate HSV-human interactions.