Evasion of the Host Immune Response by Betaherpesviruses

The human immune system boasts a diverse array of strategies for recognizing and eradicating invading pathogens. Human betaherpesviruses, a highly prevalent subfamily of viruses, include human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), human herpesvirus (HHV) 6A, HHV-6B, and HHV-7. These viruses have evolved numerous mechanisms for evading the host response. In this review, we will highlight the complex interplay between betaherpesviruses and the human immune response, focusing on protein function. We will explore methods by which the immune system first responds to betaherpesvirus infection as well as mechanisms by which viruses subvert normal cellular functions to evade the immune system and facilitate viral latency, persistence, and reactivation. Lastly, we will briefly discuss recent advances in vaccine technology targeting betaherpesviruses. This review aims to further elucidate the dynamic interactions between betaherpesviruses and the human immune system.

Automated summary

The human immune system has diverse strategies to recognize and eliminate invading pathogens, while betaherpesviruses have evolved mechanisms to evade host immune responses. This review focuses on the complex interactions between viruses and the human immune system, as well as how viruses evade immune responses and recent advancements in vaccine technology.