Search Results (462)

Background: Agents responsible for the initiation of autoimmune responses are still under investigation. The aim of this study was to determine Nogo-A and NfL levels in CSF samples from newly diagnosed multiple sclerosis (MS), neuromyelitis optica spectrum disorder (NMOSD) and pseudotumour cerebri (PTC) patients positive for HHV6-A IgG autoantibody. Methods: Initial CSF samples from 42 patients were analysed by ELISA. Independent samples t tests, Mann–Whitney U tests, crosstabulation with Fisher’s exact tests and Pearson/Spearman correlation analyses were used for group comparisons. Results: Anti-HHV6A IgG positivity was highest in MS, followed by NMOSD and then PTC (6.7%), but no significant difference in positivity was found among the groups (p = 0.367). No significant difference was found among the groups for NfL or Nogo-A levels (p = 0.373, p = 0.975, respectively). Anti-HHV6A negative MS cases had lower Nogo-A levels than positive cases (p = 0.046). In addition, anti-HHV6A negative PTC cases had lower Nogo-A levels than positive cases (p = 0.015). Anti-HHV6A positive MS patients had lower Nogo-A levels than the PTC positive group and this difference was very close to significant (p = 0.063). Conclusions: Anti-HHV6A positivity was found mainly in the MS group. Anti-HHV6A was found to be associated with Nogo-A levels, especially in the MS and PTC groups. Anti-HHV6A autoantibodies might play a role in the pathophysiology of MS. Full article

The varicella-zoster virus is a human herpesvirus that causes varicella as the primary infection and HZ as the reactivation of a latent infection. Ten to twenty percent of cases of herpes zoster ophthalmicus (HZO) involve the ophthalmic branch of the fifth cranial nerve. Any area of the eye may be affected by the condition. HZ has a lifetime risk of more than 30%. Complications from herpes zoster can significantly lower quality of life. The goal of HZ vaccinations is to stop HZ activation and PHN formation. Despite the uncommon possibility of side effects such as eye problems, the majority of vaccines on the market now are safe. The purpose of this review is to discuss VZV infection and analyze and summarize the ocular complications following VZV vaccination. Full article

Background: The objective of this study is to investigate the prevalence and epidemiological changes of major sexually transmitted infections (STIs) in Korea over the past decade. Methods: From 2010 to 2021, patients diagnosed with STIs based on ICD-10 codes were analyzed using Korean Health insurance data. The analysis included the number of patients, prevalence, and age-specific prevalence (in 5-year intervals) over this period. We examined changes in disease patterns over time by analyzing the annual trends and age-specific prevalence of bacterial STIs such as chlamydia, mycoplasma, gonorrhea, and syphilis; viral STIs such as genital herpes, human papillomavirus (HPV), and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV); and other infections including scabies, pubic lice, and trichomoniasis. Results: In 2010, the STI with the highest prevalence due to an infectious pathogen was trichomoniasis (256.65/100,000), while latent syphilis had the lowest prevalence (5.29/100,000). In 2021, the STI with the highest prevalence was genital herpes (254.54 per 100,000 persons), and latent syphilis continued to have the lowest prevalence. Bacterial STIs showed a decreasing trend. Viral STIs showed a continuous increase throughout the study period, with anogenital warts (AGW) having the highest rate of increase. Other infections showed a decreasing trend. HIV and AGW in men showed a rapid increase. Gender differences varied depending on the disease. Conclusions: While bacterial STIs have gradually declined, viral STIs have continued to increase during last decade. The characteristics of each pathogen vary according to age and gender, necessitating the establishment of risk groups for each pathogen and the development of prevention policies accordingly. Full article

Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) infection is closely associated with the development of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and cervical cancer. In recent years, the potential impact of viral co-infections on this process has also been investigated. This study investigated the presence of HR-HPV, HSV-1/2, and HHV-8 DNA in formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) cervical biopsy samples, as well as their association with lesion severity. A total of 276 FFPE cervical tissue samples were evaluated. Viral DNA was detected by real-time PCR. The samples were histopathologically classified as normal/non-dysplastic, low-grade (LSIL), and high-grade (HSIL) lesions. HR-HPV DNA was detected in 112 samples (40.6%), with the highest prevalence observed in the 30–39 age group (51.2%). Among the HPV-positive cases, 46.5% (52/112) had single-type infections, 32.1% (36/112) had multiple-type infections, and 21.4% (24/112) were untypable. Together, these categories accounted for all HPV-positive samples. The most common genotype was HPV-16 (16.7%). HHV-8 and HSV-2 DNA were not detected. HSV-1 DNA was detected in only three non-dysplastic, HPV-negative cervical samples. In conclusion, HR-HPV DNA was detected in 40.6% of cervical biopsy samples and showed a significant association with increasing histological severity, highlighting its critical role in the progression of cervical lesions. Although the absence of HHV-8 and HSV-2 suggests a limited contribution of these viruses to cervical disease, the use of a single real-time PCR assay limits the ability to draw generalized conclusions regarding their clinical relevance. Further large-scale, multicenter studies employing both tissue-based and serological approaches are needed to validate these findings and to better understand the dynamics of viral co-infections in cervical disease. Full article

The ability to study mature neuronal cells ex vivo is complicated by their non-dividing nature and difficulty in obtaining large numbers of primary cells from organisms. Thus, numerous transformed progenitor models have been developed that can be routinely cultured, then scaled, and differentiated to mature neurons. In this paper, we present a new method for differentiating one such model, the Lund human mesencephalic (LUHMES) dopaminergic neurons. This method is two days faster than some established protocols, results in nearly five times greater numbers of mature neurons, and involves fewer handling steps that could introduce technical variability. Moreover, it overcomes the problem of cell aggregate formation that commonly impedes high-resolution imaging, cell dissociation, and downstream analysis. While recently established for herpes simplex virus type 1, we demonstrate that LUHMES neurons can facilitate studies of other herpesviruses, as well as RNA viruses associated with childhood encephalitis and hemorrhagic fever. This protocol provides an improvement in the generation of large-scale neuronal cultures, which may be readily applicable to other neuronal 2D cell culture models and provides a system for studying neurotrophic viruses. We named this method the Streamlined Protocol for Enhanced Expansion and Differentiation Yield, or SPEEDY, method. Full article

Psoriasis, a chronic immune-mediated inflammatory skin disorder, presents complex pathogenetic mechanisms potentially influenced by viral infections. This comprehensive study explored the possible interplay of resistance and viral infections among psoriasis patients using serological screening techniques. The investigation involved 90 patients aged 23–45 years, systematically examining viral seropositivity for HSV (herpes simplex virus), HZ (herpes zoster), HBV (hepatitis B virus), HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), and HCV (hepatitis C virus) through ELISA testing. The findings revealed notable active or recent viral infection rates: 8.9% HSV positivity, 2.2% HZ antibody detection, 4.4% HCV positivity, and 4.4% HIV positivity. The research can contribute to current knowledge gaps, broaden the knowledge regarding the relationship between psoriasis and viral infection, and assess resistance, as it can mediate the interaction. The results can lead to improved diagnosis, treatment, and patient care options. This study emphasizes the importance of thorough viral testing for psoriasis patients, as well as focused therapeutic regimens that take into account viral co-infections. It elucidates the complex networks of biological relationships between immune factors, contributes information that is critical to our understanding of the multifactorial etiology of psoriasis, and concludes with a strong argument for investigating the mechanisms of viral involvement in this chronic-relapsing inflammatory disease. Full article

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a widespread pathogen responsible for recurrent infections, primarily affecting the skin and mucous membranes. With the aim of targeting both the viral infection and the associated inflammatory response, biotechnologically produced Lavandula angustifolia Miller (L. angustifolia) extract, rich in rosmarinic acid, was incorporated into liposomal formulations intended for topical application. Lavender is known for its strong anti-inflammatory, antioxidant, wound-healing, and antiviral properties. However, its low stability under certain conditions limits its therapeutic potential. Four different formulations were developed: conventional liposomes, glycerosomes, hyalurosomes, and glycerohyalurosomes. The vesicles were characterized for size, stability, and entrapment efficiency. Glycerosomes were the smallest (~58 nm), while the other formulations ranged around 77 nm, all maintaining a highly negative surface charge, ensuring stability and reduced aggregation. Glycerol-containing formulations demonstrated superior stability over 12 months, while liposomes and hyalurosomes increased their size after only two months. Entrapment efficiency reached up to 100% for most vesicles, except for glycerohyalurosomes (~54%). In vitro studies on Normal Human Dermal Fibroblasts (NHDFs) demonstrated that all formulations were biocompatible and enhanced cell viability under oxidative stress. Glycerosomes, hyalurosomes, and glycerohyalurosomes exhibited significant anti-inflammatory activity by reducing MMP-1 and IL-6 levels in LPS-stimulated fibroblasts. Furthermore, these preliminary results highlighted promising antiviral activity against HSV-1 of the obtained formulations, particularly when applied during or post-infection. Overall, these phospholipid vesicles offer a dual therapeutic approach, combining antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and antiviral effects, positioning them as promising candidates for the treatment of HSV-induced skin lesions and related inflammatory conditions. Full article

Herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is a globally prevalent pathogen that can infect a variety of animal species as well as humans. However, existing antiviral therapies are constrained in their capacity to effectively target viral latency and prevent recurrent infections. Antimicrobial peptides (AMPs), particularly cathelicidins, as part of innate immune system have demonstrated broad-spectrum efficacy against viral pathogens. In this study, four peptides derived from Elephas maximus cathelicidin EM were designed and optimized (EM-1 to EM-4). We identified low toxicity peptide derivatives through hemolytic and cytotoxicity assays, quantified their anti-HSV-1 activity by determining IC₅₀. Antiviral mechanisms were investigated using RT-qPCR and antiviral efficacy was ultimately validated in C57BL/6J mice through viral load quantification in brain, lung, and heart tissues. Our findings revealed that EM-1 significantly inhibited HSV-1 replication in U251 cells. In a murine footpad inoculation model, EM-1 administration substantially reduced viral loads and alleviated inflammatory responses. Histological assessment demonstrated that EM-1 treatment mitigated HSV-1 induced tissue damage in infected mice. We also found that EM-1 exerted its antiviral effects by upregulating the expression of interferon-gamma and its downstream genes, such as ISG15 and MX1. These findings indicated that EM-1 is a dual function peptide that inhibits replication of HSV-1 as well as enhances host antiviral immunity. Collectively, this study highlights the therapeutic potential of elephant cathelicidin derived peptides in antiviral development. Full article

Herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a prevalent and persistent human pathogen belonging to the family Herpesviridae and classified as an alpha-herpesvirus. It comprises two distinct types, HSV-1 and HSV-2, which together infect a significant portion of the global population and pose substantial public health challenges. HSV-1 is typically associated with oral herpes, while HSV-2 primarily causes genital herpes; both are characterized by recurrent lesions, latent infection, and mucocutaneous discomfort. Conventional antiviral drugs such as acyclovir and its derivatives are limited by drug resistance, potential toxicity, and their inability to eradicate latent viral reservoirs. These limitations have prompted increasing interest in alternative therapeutic strategies. Phenolic acids and tannins, plant-derived polyphenolic compounds, have attracted considerable attention due to their potent antiviral properties against various viruses, including HSV. This review summarizes current research on phenolic acids and tannins as promising natural antivirals against HSV, with a focus on their mechanisms of action and efficacy in disrupting multiple stages of the HSV life cycle. Full article

Cancer of the uterine cervix (cervical cancer) is a leading cancer among women worldwide, although its incidence has been reducing in many developing nations. In the majority of cervical cancer cases, the presence of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) is usually detected. However, a growing body of evidence currently considers that exclusive HPV infection may not be sufficient for cancer development. Apart from certain common risk factors for cervical cancer, like poor nutritional status and smoking, many studies documented an association with other viral infections, such as human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). Similarly, vaginal bacterial populations perhaps play a key role in cervical cancer. It may be worth mentioning that different bacterial species can immensely influence (either protecting or adversely) the biochemical characteristics of the cervicovaginal environment—for example, Lactobacillus crispatus, Gardnerella vaginalis, and Chlamydia trachomatis. As a result, chronic infections with unfavorable microorganisms (other than HPV) may affect the pathological processes of malignancy. On the other hand, the cervix is an estrogen-sensitive organ like the corpus uteri (i.e., the body of the uterus). Estrogen and different estrogen receptors are implicated in the development and promotion of various cancers, including endometrial cancer. A number of reports also suggest a close association between estrogen and HPV in the development of cervical cancer. Furthermore, estrogen is linked with the characteristics of the vaginal microenvironment including bacteria. Therefore, several of the abovementioned factors (some are preventable) could play an important role in the progression of cervical neoplastic lesions. Full article

Wastewater-based epidemiology (WBE) offers a promising tool for sexually transmitted infection (STI) surveillance, especially in settings where underdiagnosis or social stigma complicates conventional reporting. To assess its utility, we conducted a year-long study examining six STIs, Chlamydia trachomatis, Treponema pallidum, Neisseria gonorrhoeae, human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), and herpes simplex virus (HSV), in weekly composite samples from the primary influent of a small-sized Midwestern wastewater treatment plant. Pathogen detection and quantification were performed via digital PCR. Among the tested targets, Gonorrhea, HIV, HCV, and HSV were detected at the highest frequencies, often in 40–50% of the samples, while Chlamydia and Syphilis appeared less frequently. Despite the variability in detection patterns, this study demonstrates that even infrequent signals can reveal community-level shedding of poorly reported or asymptomatic infections. Although month-to-month wastewater data were not strongly correlated with corresponding clinical records, which could potentially reflect delayed healthcare seeking and pathogen-specific shedding dynamics, the overall findings underscore WBE’s ability to complement existing surveillance by capturing infections outside traditional healthcare channels. These results not only advance our understanding of STI prevalence and population shedding but also highlight the practical benefits of WBE as an early warning and targeted intervention tool. Full article

Encephalitis, a severe neurological condition caused by human-to-human (H2H) transmitted viruses, such as herpes simplex virus (HSV), requires a rigorous mathematical framework to understand its transmission dynamics. This study develops a nonlinear compartmental model, SEITR (Susceptible–Exposed–Infected–Treated–Recovered), to characterize the progression of viral encephalitis. The basic reproduction number (R₀) is derived using the next-generation matrix method, serving as a threshold parameter determining disease persistence. The local and global stability of the disease-free and endemic equilibria are established through a rigorous mathematical analysis. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis quantifies the impact of key parameters on R₀, offering more profound insights into their mathematical significance. Numerical simulations validate the theoretical results, demonstrating the system’s dynamical behavior under varying epidemiological conditions. This study provides a mathematically rigorous approach to modeling viral encephalitis transmission, filling a gap in the literature and offering a foundation for future research in infectious disease dynamics. Full article

Some studies suggested a high incidence of human herpesvirus (HHV) reactivation in severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection. To evaluate the prevalence of HHV reactivations in a population with various severity degrees of coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19), we analyzed 102 individuals and compared them with 51 SARS-CoV-2-negative subjects admitted in the same period (January–July 2022) for acute respiratory failure. Positivity was found in 76% of subjects for at least one HHV, and in 46% for ≥2 HHV. These proportions were more prevalent in SARS-CoV-2-positive than in negative patients (83% vs. 61%; 56% vs. 27%, respectively). The most common HHV was HHV-7 both in the whole population (51%) and in SARS-CoV-2-positive and -negative subjects (57% and 39%, respectively); human cytomegalovirus, herpes simplex virus-1, Epstein–Barr virus, and HHV-6 were more represented in SARS-CoV-2-positive individuals. No single or combined HHV reactivation was associated with the 60-day mortality rate. However, cytomegalovirus reactivation was an independent predictor of COVID-19 severity and longer hospitalizations, while the occurrence of ≥3 any HHV reactivations was independently associated with the aforementioned outcomes and ventilatory support need. Taken together, our data suggest that in patients with moderate-to-severe COVID-19, the diagnosis of HHV coinfections can add useful prognostic information. Full article

Understanding the contribution of human herpesviruses to the aetiology of neurodegenerative diseases is an emerging field of interest. The association of Epstein–Barr virus with multiple sclerosis is the most researched example; however, the definitive proof of causation is still lacking. Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is the most common form of dementia and typically manifests in individuals aged over 65 years; however, it also occurs in a small number of individuals aged less than 65 years. A combination of environmental, genetic, and lifestyle factors is believed to contribute to the development of AD. There have been several reports describing potential associations of infections or reactivations of human alphaherpesviruses with AD. A particular characteristic of human alphaherpesviruses (herpes simplex viruses 1 and 2, varicella zoster virus) is that they are neurotropic and that lifelong infection (latency) is established mainly in the dorsal root and trigeminal ganglia. There have also been reports that suppression of alphaherpesvirus infections through either vaccination or the application of antiviral treatments may be protective against the development of AD. Zoster vaccines and acyclovir may prove to be effective interventions for preventing or limiting the progression of AD. This is particularly relevant as there are currently no available cheap and effective treatments for AD. In this review, the basic virology of human alphaherpesviruses is described followed by their epidemiology and associations with AD. Finally, the prevention and treatment of human alphaherpesviruses are considered in the context of potential applications for the prevention of AD. Full article

We aim to investigate the role of the Herpesviridae family (HHV) in the onset and progression of prostate cancer (PCa) and to profile the local PCa immunological status. A total of 116 “tru-cut” biopsies (58 PCa and 58 benign prostatic hyperplasia [BPH]) and 49 formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) instances of PCa were analysed using real-time qPCR and histological examination. Infection with CMV, EBV, HHV6, and HHV7 was detected in 11.5% of the “tru-cut” biopsies (25.9% in BPH and 6.9% in the PCa group). In the formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) samples, infection was detected in 69.4% of the patients, with individual rates of EBV (47%), HHV6 (38%), HHV7 (41%), CMV (2.9%), HSV2 (2.9%), and VZV (5.8%). In the HHV-infected PCa cases, the histopathological landscape included intratumor lymphocyte infiltration with fibrosis and necrosis, periductal chronic inflammatory reaction and granulomatous lesions with foci of abscesses and necrosis, as well as inflammatory infiltration, chronic lymphadenitis, prostatic intraepithelial atrophy (PIA), and high-grade prostatic intraepithelial neoplasia (HGPIN). The majority of HHV-infected PCa patients were predominantly classified as grade G3/G4/G5 tumours, exhibiting perineural, perivascular, and lymphovascular invasion, seminal vesicle invasion, senile vesicle amyloidosis, and lymph node metastasis. Statistical analysis demonstrated a significant association between HHV infection and PCa (χ² ≈ 20.3, df = 1, p < 0.0001; Fisher’s exact test, p < 0.0001) with an odds ratio of 6.50 (95% CI: 2.80–15.12). These findings suggest that long-term HHV infection could contribute to a complicated and potentially altered immune PCa tumour environment due to inflammation. This may serve as a predictor of aggressive disease progression. Full article