Epigenetics and Genetics of Viral Latency

• Published in: Cell host & microbe Vol. 19; no. 5; pp. 619 - 628
• Main Author: Lieberman, Paul M.
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: United States Elsevier Inc 11.05.2016
• Subjects: Animals; DNA virus; DNA Viruses - physiology; Epigenesis, Genetic; epigenetics; Genes, Viral; genetics; herpesvirus; Herpesvirus 1, Human - genetics; Herpesvirus 1, Human - physiology; Humans; latency; reactivation; virus; Virus Diseases - virology; Virus Integration - genetics; Virus Latency - genetics; Virus Physiological Phenomena; Virus Replication - genetics; genetics; herpesvirus; latency; reactivation; virus; DNA virus; epigenetics
• ISSN: 1931-3128; 1934-6069
• DOI: 10.1016/j.chom.2016.04.008

Viral latency can be considered a metastable, nonproductive infection state that is capable of subsequent reactivation to repeat the infection cycle. Viral latent infections have numerous associated pathologies, including cancer, birth defects, neuropathy, cardiovascular disease, chronic inflammation, and immunological dysfunctions. The mechanisms controlling the establishment, maintenance, and reactivation from latency are complex and diversified among virus families, species, and strains. Yet, as examined in this review, common properties of latent viral infections can be defined. Eradicating latent virus has become an important but elusive challenge and will require a more complete understanding of the mechanisms controlling these processes. Viruses can establish long-term persistence through stable-latent infection. Paradoxically, latency is a highly dynamic process. In this review, Lieberman examines the genetic and epigenetic mechanisms that restrict productive infection and act as cofactors to establish and maintain latency. Identification of these common pathways may help eradicate pathogenic latent infections.