Abstract
Herpesvirus genomes enter the eukaryotic nucleus as large linear double stranded DNA molecules that are free of any proteins (naked DNA). Once inside the nucleus, the HSV-1 genomes immediately associate with proteins that will be instrumental in the organization and regulation of these genomes. These initial interactions are thought to determine the fate of the infecting genomes. In general, the host cell has evolved several mechanisms to suppress viral genomes and induce latent or abortive infections. On the other hand, the virus has evolved to use viral and cellular factors to promote lytic infection. Recent findings suggest that not all viral genomes in the infected nucleus will develop progeny and that not all genetically identical cells will support successful virus propagation. Thus, the decision between different fates of infection is determined at both single-cell and single-genome levels. Here we summarize current knowledge on the conditions and interactions that lead to each outcome and discuss the unknown determinants.
Highlights
The entry of herpesviruses into cells can be divided into two major steps: capsid release into the cytoplasm and injection of viral genomes into the nucleoplasm
We focus on the initial interactions of viral genomes with host and viral factors inside the nucleus that determine the outcome of infection
These results suggest that most incoming viral genomes remain silenced and condensed by nucleosome structures throughout the lytic infection, and that only few genomes need to escape the silencing to initiate active replication
Summary
The entry of herpesviruses into cells can be divided into two major steps: capsid release into the cytoplasm and injection of viral genomes into the nucleoplasm. We focus on the initial interactions of viral genomes with host and viral factors inside the nucleus that determine the outcome of infection. During lytic infection viral genomes enter the nucleus and initiate a cascade of viral gene expression.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
