Native Herpes simplex virus HSV2 protein

Supplementary information

This supplementary information is collated from multiple sources and compiled automatically.

Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 (HSV2) also known as Human Herpesvirus 2 is a member of the herpesviridae family. It mainly affects the genital region and is a common cause of genital herpes. The virus has a double-stranded DNA genome with a mass of approximately 152 kbp. HSV2 primarily expresses in epithelial cells of the skin and mucous membranes. It can establish latency in neuronal cells especially the sacral ganglia contributing to its ability to persist in the host for life.

Biological function summary

HSV2 exhibits a complex life cycle involving both lytic and latent phases. During infection the virus interacts with cellular compartments including the nucleus where it hijacks host cell machinery to replicate its genome. In the latent phase HSV2 becomes dormant in sensory neurons avoiding host immune detection. It is not part of a larger complex but relies on numerous viral proteins for successful replication and invasion such as glycoproteins critical for host entry.

Pathways

HSV2 interacts with multiple immune evasion and inflammatory pathways. It manipulates the NF-kB signaling pathway an important player in inflammation and immune responses. The virus evades immune detection by inhibiting the activation of NF-kB allowing persistent infection. HSV2 also affects the MAPK signaling pathway through viral proteins such as ICP34.5 which modulate host defense mechanisms and facilitate viral replication.

HSV2 is significantly associated with genital herpes and is linked to an increased risk of HIV acquisition. Genital herpes can cause recurrent painful lesions and can be transmitted to neonates during childbirth leading to neonatal herpes. The virus’s interaction with host immune pathways might also modify the host's susceptibility to other sexually transmitted infections including HIV. HSV2 through its impact on the host’s immune response shares interactions with proteins like HIV-1 gp120 in co-infected individuals which complicates the management of these infections.