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Published on: April 4, 2019
Persistence of RNA Viruses in the Respiratory Tract: An Overview
Carlos Santiago-Olivares1, Eber Martínez-Alvarado1, Evelyn Rivera-Toledo1
1Departamento de Microbiología y Parasitología, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Ciudad de México, México.
Abstract:
Respiratory RNA viruses are a major cause of acute lower respiratory tract infections and contribute substantially to hospitalization among infants, elderly, and immunocompromised. Complete viral clearance from acute infections is not always achieved, leading to persistence. Certain chronic respiratory diseases like asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease have been associated with persistent infection by human respiratory syncytial virus and human rhinovirus, but it is still not clear whether RNA viruses really establish long-term infections as it has been recognized for DNA viruses as human bocavirus and adenoviruses. Herein, we summarize evidence of RNA virus persistence in the human respiratory tract, as well as in some animal models, to highlight how long-term infections might be related to development and/or maintenance of chronic respiratory symptoms.
Insights
Respiratory RNA viruses can persist after acute infections, potentially leading to chronic respiratory diseases. This review explores evidence for long-term RNA virus infections and their link to persistent respiratory symptoms.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Immunology
- Pulmonology
Background:
- Respiratory RNA viruses cause significant acute lower respiratory tract infections and hospitalizations.
- Viral clearance is not always complete, leading to potential persistence.
- Chronic respiratory diseases are sometimes linked to persistent RNA virus infections, similar to DNA viruses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review evidence of RNA virus persistence in the respiratory tract.
- To explore the relationship between long-term RNA virus infections and chronic respiratory symptoms.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on respiratory RNA virus persistence.
- Examination of evidence from human and animal models.
Main Results:
- Evidence suggests some respiratory RNA viruses can establish persistent infections.
- Persistent infections may be linked to the development or exacerbation of chronic respiratory conditions.
Conclusions:
- RNA virus persistence is a plausible mechanism contributing to chronic respiratory diseases.
- Further research is needed to fully understand the role of persistent RNA viruses in respiratory health.
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