Epigenetic Targeting for Controlling Persistent Neurotropic Infections Caused by Borna Virus and HIV.

Area of Science:

• Neurovirology
• Epigenetics
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Long-lasting viral persistence in host cells, especially neurons, is challenging due to the need to minimize cytopathic effects.
• Neurotropic viruses like Borna disease virus (BDV) and Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) establish persistent intranuclear infections in the nervous system.
• These viruses interact with cellular epigenetic mechanisms to ensure their survival and replication.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the role of epigenetic modifications in the pathogenesis of BDV and HIV infections.
• To explore epigenetic modulator compounds as potential therapeutic targets for neurotropic viral infections.
• To provide an overview of therapeutic strategies for managing BDV- and HIV-associated neurological disorders.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies on viral persistence, neurotropic viruses, and epigenetics.
• Analysis of the interaction between BDV/HIV and cellular epigenetic machinery.
• Identification of epigenetic modulator agents relevant to viral pathogenesis.

Main Results:

• Epigenetic mechanisms are significantly involved in the pathogenesis of BDV and HIV neurological disorders.
• Viral persistence relies on the modulation of host cell epigenetic processes.
• Epigenetic modifications influence viral replication and cytopathic effects.

Conclusions:

• Targeting cellular epigenetic mechanisms presents a promising therapeutic avenue for persistent neurotropic viral infections.
• Epigenetic modulators could offer novel treatments for neurological diseases caused by BDV and HIV.
• Understanding viral-epigenetic interactions is crucial for developing effective antiviral strategies.