Endogenous retrovirus (ERV (or HERV when human-specific))

Endogenous retroviruses (ERVs) are ancient retroviral sequences stably integrated into the germline DNA of vertebrates and transmitted vertically through generations. In humans, ERVs constitute up to 5–8% of the genome and are generally defective and non-infectious due to the accumulation of mutations or deletions. Although historically viewed as "junk DNA," some ERV sequences have been co-opted for beneficial host functions, notably in the immune system and placental formation, while others may dysregulate gene expression, contribute to genomic diversity, or play a role in disease pathogenesis. Most ERVs are not therapeutically targeted, but certain families (such as HERV-K) have been implicated in cancer, autoimmune diseases, and neurological disorders, primarily through effects on gene expression or immune modulation rather than serving as classical standalone molecular drug targets. Note: "Endogenous retrovirus" as an entry is not a single, therapeutically actionable molecule or receptor; rather, it refers to a large, diverse group of genomic elements originating from ancient retroviral infections. Therefore, it is not considered a well-defined therapeutic target like a receptor or enzyme, and many required structured fields (including interacting drugs and mechanisms of action) are not applicable.

Other names

ERVHuman endogenous retrovirus (HERV)Endogenized retrovirus