Novel approaches in fighting herpes simplex virus infections

Sarah S. Wilson, Esra Fakioglu, Betsy C. Herold

Research output: Contribution to journalReview articlepeer-review

89 Scopus citations

Abstract

The development of novel strategies to eradicate herpes simplex virus (HSV) is a global public health priority. While acyclovir and related nucleoside analogues provide successful modalities for treatment and suppression, HSV remains highly prevalent worldwide and is a major cofactor fueling the HIV epidemic. HSV is the predominant cause of genital ulcerative disease, and neonatal and sporadic infectious encephalitis. Asymptomatic shedding, which occurs more frequently than previously appreciated, contributes to viral transmission. Acyclovir resistance may be problematic for immunocompromised patients and highlights the need for new safe and effective agents. Ideally, vaccines to prevent infection, drugs to inhibit the establishment of or reactivation from latency, or vaginal microbicides to prevent sexual and perinatal transmission are needed to control the epidemic. This review summarizes current therapeutic options and strategies in development.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)559-568
Number of pages10
JournalExpert Review of Anti-Infective Therapy
Volume7
Issue number5
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2009

Keywords

  • Acyclovir
  • Herpes simplex virus
  • Microbicide
  • Vaccine

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Microbiology
  • Microbiology (medical)
  • Virology
  • Infectious Diseases

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