Title : Establishment of a comprehensive assay platform for supporting the discovery of agents against acute and latent infections of herpes simplex viruses
Abstract:
Herpes simplex virus 1 and 2 (HSV-1 and HSV-2) are globally prevalent human pathogens associated with a wide range of diseases, from mild conditions such as herpes labialis to serious infections such as encephalitis. Like other herpesviruses, HSV can establish lifelong latent infection in neurons of the peripheral nervous system, which can reactivate under certain circumstances. In addition, latent HSV infection is potentially associated with certain types of cancers. Despite ongoing research, the mechanisms underlying HSV latency remain incompletely understood.
Current HSV therapies are effective against active infections, but have no impact on the latent viral reservoir in neurons. Furthermore, no effective vaccines for HSV-1 or HSV-2 have been developed. Consequently, the HSV-related diseases remain incurable and challenging to prevent. Addressing the prevention and treatment of HSV infections, particularly latent infections, remains a critical unmet medical need.
To expedite the discovery of prophylactic and therapeutic agents targeting HSV reactivation, as well as to further deepen the understanding of HSV latency, we have developed a comprehensive platform encompassing both in vitro and in vivo HSV assays.
