Herpes virus

Definition

Herpes virus is a member of the Herpesviridae family, known for causing infections such as herpes simplex and varicella-zoster. These viruses have a DNA genome and can establish lifelong latent infections.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Herpes viruses are classified into three subfamilies: Alpha, Beta, and Gamma based on their biological properties.
2. Antiviral drugs like acyclovir target the viral DNA polymerase to inhibit replication of herpes viruses.
3. Herpesviruses can remain latent in nerve cells and reactivate under certain conditions such as stress or immunosuppression.
4. The mechanism of latency involves the virus integrating its genome into the host cell's nucleus without producing new virions.
5. Resistance to antiviral drugs in herpes viruses may result from mutations in the viral DNA polymerase gene.

Review Questions

• What are the three subfamilies of herpes viruses?
• How do antiviral drugs like acyclovir inhibit herpes virus replication?
• What factors can lead to the reactivation of latent herpes virus?

Related terms

Acyclovir: An antiviral drug used to treat infections caused by herpes viruses by targeting viral DNA polymerase.

Latency: A state where the virus remains dormant within host cells and does not produce new virus particles.

DNA Polymerase: An enzyme that synthesizes DNA molecules from deoxyribonucleotides, critical for viral replication.