Mechanisms of Subversion of Type I Interferon Responses by Alpha Herpesviruses
Karen L. Mossman
from: Alpha Herpesviruses: Molecular and Cellular Biology (Edited by: R. M. Sandri-Goldin). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2006)
Abstract
Interferons are pleiotropic cytokines that were first discovered based on their ability to interfere with virus replication. In vivo, interferons have been shown to play a central role in limiting the spread of alpha herpesviruses in that strains of mice that are resistant to virus infection rapidly produce high levels of this cytokine whereas strains that are susceptible to infection do not. Given the evolutionary pressure for alpha herpesviruses to delay or subvert the antiviral activities of interferons, it is not surprising that multiple viral proteins have been identified that collectively function to limit interferon production, signaling and effector function. This chapter will summarize the current knowledge surrounding mechanisms utilized by alpha herpesviruses to ensure efficient replication and spread in the face of an active interferon-mediated host antiviral response read more ...
