Insights on monkeypox virus infection immunopathogenesis

An immunocompromised status has been associated with more odds of being infected with monkeypox virus (MPXV) and progressing to severe disease. This aligns with the importance of immune competence for MPXV control and clearance. We and others have previously reviewed parallels between MPXV and other viruses belonging to the Poxviridae in affecting the immune system. This article reviews studies providing direct evidence of the MPXV-immune interactions. The wide-ranging effects of MPXV on the immune system, from stimulation to modulation to memory, are broadly categorised, followed by a detailing of these effects on the immune cells and molecules, including natural killer cells, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes, cytokines, interferons, chemokines, and complement.

Automated summary

An immunocompromised status increases the risk of monkeypox virus infection and severe disease, highlighting the importance of immune competence for controlling and clearing the virus. Studies have shown various effects of monkeypox virus on the immune system, including stimulation, modulation, and memory, affecting immune cells and molecules such as natural killer cells, macrophages, neutrophils, lymphocytes, cytokines, interferons, chemokines, and complement.