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Updated: Dec 27, 2025

An In vitro Model to Study Immune Responses of Human Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells to Human Respiratory Syncytial Virus Infection
Published on: December 10, 2013
Genetic determinants of host immunity against human rhinovirus infections
Ian T Lamborn1,2, Helen C Su3
1Human Immunological Diseases Section, Laboratory of Clinical Immunology and Microbiology, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, USA.
Abstract:
Human rhinoviruses (RV) are a frequent cause of respiratory tract infections with substantial morbidity and mortality in some patients. Nevertheless, the genetic basis of susceptibility to RV in humans has been relatively understudied. Experimental infections of mice and in vitro infections of human cells have indicated that various pathogen recognition receptors (TLRs, RIG-I, and MDA5) regulate innate immune responses to RV. However, deficiency of MDA5 is the only one among these so far uncovered that confers RV susceptibility in humans. Other work has shown increased RV susceptibility in patients with a polymorphism in CDHR3 that encodes the cellular receptor for RV-C entry. Here, we provide a comprehensive review of the genetic determinants of human RV susceptibility in the context of what is known about RV biology.
Insights
Human rhinoviruses (RV) cause respiratory infections. Genetic factors, like MDA5 and CDHR3, influence susceptibility to RV, but this area needs more research.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Virology
- Genetics
Background:
- Human rhinoviruses (RV) are common causes of respiratory illness.
- The genetic factors influencing RV susceptibility in humans are not well understood.
- Innate immune receptors (TLRs, RIG-I, MDA5) and CDHR3 are implicated in RV response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the genetic determinants of human RV susceptibility.
- To connect genetic factors with RV biology and innate immunity.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on RV genetics and immunity.
- Analysis of pathogen recognition receptors and cellular receptors involved in RV infection.
Main Results:
- MDA5 deficiency is linked to RV susceptibility in humans.
- A CDHR3 polymorphism increases susceptibility to RV-C.
- Multiple genetic factors likely contribute to RV outcomes.
Conclusions:
- Understanding genetic determinants is crucial for managing RV infections.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate the genetic basis of RV susceptibility.
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