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Updated: Aug 10, 2026
11:28
Dissecting Host-virus Interaction in Lytic Replication of a Model Herpesvirus
Published on: October 7, 2011
[The function of human cytomegalovirus genes]
1Laboratory of Virology, Research Institute for Disease Mechanism and Control, Nagoya University School of Medicine.
Nihon Rinsho. Japanese Journal of Clinical Medicine
|February 18, 1998
Summary
Human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) has over 200 genes, including conserved "core genes" essential for viral replication and structure. This review explores the functions of these HCMV proteins and their cellular homologs.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
Context:
- The human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) genome is fully sequenced, comprising over 200 genes.
- Approximately 40 HCMV genes are conserved across herpesviruses, termed 'core genes'.
- HCMV encodes homologs of cellular proteins, including MHC class I, T cell gamma chain receptor, and C-C chemokine receptor.
Purpose:
- To provide a concise review of the known functions of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) proteins.
- To highlight the significance of conserved 'core genes' in viral DNA replication and virion morphogenesis.
- To discuss HCMV's interaction with host cellular machinery through gene product homologs.
Summary:
- The HCMV genome contains over 200 genes, with about 40 conserved 'core genes' vital for replication and morphogenesis.
- HCMV proteins include homologs of host cellular factors, such as MHC class I heavy chain and chemokine receptors.
- Specific US region genes in HCMV are implicated in down-regulating MHC class I antigen expression.
Impact:
- Enhances understanding of HCMV gene function and viral pathogenesis.
- Provides a foundation for future research into HCMV protein roles and therapeutic targets.
- Contributes to the broader knowledge of herpesvirus genomics and molecular biology.
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