Virology and Pathogenesis of Human Herpesviruses Infection

Dear Colleagues,

 Herpesviruses (HHVs) are a group of viruses widely spread among human populations, with over 90% of adults having been infected by one or more types of herpesviruses. Herpesvirus infection is linked to multiple types of diseases, including cancers, chickenpox, shingles, mononucleosis, cold sores, and genital herpes, etc. 

The pathogenesis of human herpesvirus infections involves a complex interplay between the virus and the host's immune system. Upon initial infection, the virus enters the host cells and begins replicating. The host's immune system responds by activating immune cells and producing antibodies to attack the virus. However, herpesviruses have evolved mechanisms to evade the host's immune response, allowing them to establish a lifelong infection with a latent and lytic lifecycle. After the primary infection, the virus enters a latent infection where it remains dormant in cells. However, in certain pathophysiological conditions, herpesviruses can also enter lytic reactivation and cause recurrent infections. Overall, the pathology of herpesvirus infections can vary depending on the specific virus and the individual’s immune status, with diseases ranging widely from mild self-limiting infections to severe and life-threatening conditions. Understanding the virology and pathogenesis of these infections is essential for developing effective therapies and vaccines.

This Special Issue aims to expand knowledge on the virology and epidemiology of all human herpesviruses, the role of herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of specific diseases, and the contribution of potential underlying mechanisms towards triggering the development of these disorders, while also opening new avenues to the possible therapeutic use of antiherpetic drugs able to block illness progression.  Research articles, communications, and reviews are welcome.

Dr. Jin Gan
Dr. Chong Wang
Dr. Qing Zhu
Guest Editors

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• herpesvirus
• latent infection
• lytic replication
• virus–host interactions
• viral entry and egress
• viral infection and tumor formation
• immune escape and interplay
• viral intervention and therapeutics