![Uncovering Herpes Simplex Infection Tactic]()
Understanding how the herpes simplex virus (HSV) invades cells could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating infections. In a study published online on January 2 in PloS Pathogens, Natalia Cheshenko, Ph.D., and Betsy Herold, M.D. showed that HSV activates a membrane enzyme called scramblase, which then “flips” certain lipids from the inner layer of the cell membrane to the outer layer—making it easier for HSV to interact with membrane proteins such as Akt, which are normally found only on the inside. Interactions between HSV and these proteins promote viral entry. Normally, moving those lipids to the membrane’s outer layer would trigger cell death, known as apoptosis. But the infecting viruses prevent apoptosis by causing the lipids to flip back within two hours of infection. The finding suggests that drugs that inhibit scramblase or Akt could prevent or treat HSV infection. Dr. Herold is professor of pediatrics, of microbiology & immunology, and of obstetrics & gynecology and women’s health. Dr. Herold also holds the Harold and Muriel Block Chair in Pediatrics at Einstein. Dr. Cheskenko is an assistant professor of pediatrics at Einstein.
Posted on: Wednesday, February 14, 2018