Latent infection

Definition

A latent infection is a type of viral infection where the virus remains in the host's body in an inactive state and does not produce symptoms. The virus can reactivate later, causing disease.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. During latency, viral genomes persist in the host cell without producing new virions.
2. Common viruses that cause latent infections include herpes simplex virus (HSV) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV).
3. Latent infections can be reactivated by factors such as stress or immunosuppression.
4. Latent viruses often reside in specific cells, such as neurons for HSV.
5. Detection of a latent infection typically requires molecular techniques since the virus is not actively replicating.

Review Questions

• What distinguishes a latent infection from an active viral infection?
• Name two viruses that are known to cause latent infections.
• What factors can trigger the reactivation of a latent virus?

Related terms

Lysogenic Cycle: A type of viral replication cycle where the virus integrates its genome into the host cell's DNA and remains dormant.

Reactivation: The process by which a latent virus resumes activity and begins to replicate, potentially causing symptoms.

Provirus: Viral DNA that has integrated into the host genome and may remain dormant for long periods before becoming active again.