Neuron-restricted cytomegalovirus latency in the central nervous system regulated by CD4⁺ T-cells and IFN-γ.

ABSTRACT: All human herpesviruses establish latency following the resolution of the primary infection. Among these, α-herpesviruses HSV-1, HSV-2 and VZV establish latency in neurons, whereas neurons are not traditionally considered a site of latency for other herpesviruses. Using a combination of in vivo murine models and ex vivo human fetal tissues, we discovered that cytomegalovirus (CMV), a ubiquitous β-herpesvirus, can persist in neurons and that CD4⁺ T-cell-derived interferon-gamma is critical in restricting active viral replication in this cell type. Furthermore, we show that mouse CMV can establish latency in neurons and that CD4⁺ T-cells are essential in preventing viral reactivation. Our findings may have translational significance because human cytomegalovirus (HCMV)

SUBMITTER: Krstanovic F 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11954325 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature