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Herpes Simplex Virus and Neurodegenerative Diseases Linkage Identified

In COVID-19, Latest News by Precision Vaccinations

A new study by researchers at the University of Illinois Chicago (UIC) suggests that when the protein optineurin (OPTN) is present in cells it restricts the spread of herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1).
This study shows that OPTN selectively targets HSV-1 tegument protein, VP16, and the fusion glycoprotein, gB, to degradation by autophagy.
OPTN deficiency unveils severe consequences for recruitment of adaptive immunity and suppression of neuronal necroptosis. 
Furthermore, Ocular HSV-1 infection is lethal without OPTN and is rescued using a necroptosis inhibitor.