Herpes simplex virus 2 DNA (HSV-2 DNA) (HSV-2 DNA)

Herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2) DNA is the double-stranded genomic material of the virus responsible for genital herpes and neonatal infections (NCBI, 2023). It serves as the template for viral replication and gene expression within host cells, and its persistence in a latent form within the sacral ganglia allows for lifelong infection and periodic reactivation (NIH, 2022). Most therapeutic interventions target the replication of this DNA by inhibiting the viral DNA polymerase or the helicase-primase complex, thereby preventing the production of new virions (StatPearls, 2023). Nucleoside analogs like acyclovir are selectively phosphorylated by viral thymidine kinase and subsequently incorporated into the nascent HSV-2 DNA strand, causing obligate chain termination (PubChem, 2024). While effective at managing symptoms and reducing transmission, these drugs do not eliminate the latent HSV-2 DNA from the host's nervous system. Emerging strategies, including gene editing technologies like CRISPR/Cas9, are being explored to directly target and disrupt the HSV-2 DNA genome to achieve a functional cure (Nature Communications, 2020).

Other names

HSV-2 genomeHuman herpesvirus 2 DNAHHV-2 DNA

Inhibition of viral DNA synthesis via DNA polymerase inhibition, DNA chain termination, or helicase-primase complex inhibition.