Cytomegalovirus Interference with Interferons
Albert Zimmermann and Hartmut Hengel
from: Cytomegaloviruses: Molecular Biology and Immunology (Edited by: Matthias J. Reddehase). Caister Academic Press, U.K. (2006)
Abstract
Interferons (IFNs) represent the first line of antiviral host defense, being indispensable for successful control of viral replication. Upon infection, IFNs are rapidly induced and mediate expression of numerous proteins involved in establishing an antiviral state, in cell growth inhibition, and in the regulation of the immune response. Cytomegaloviruses (CMVs) persist lifelong in their human or animal hosts. To enhance primary and recurrent replication in immunocompetent hosts and to achieve successful virus transmission in the presence of antiviral immune responses, CMVs are particularly effective in disarming the host immune system. Recent findings indicate that CMVs counteract the IFN response at multiple sites including initial IFN induction, IFN receptor signal transduction and transcription of IFN-dependent genes. This review is focused on current research on CMV gene products that block IFN induction or IFN receptor signaling, along with further CMV escape strategies for which a genetic and molecular basis has yet to be defined read more ...
