Pathogenesis of Human Cytomegalovirus Infection

Dear Colleagues,

Infection with human cytomegalovirus (HCMV, also known as human herpesvirus 5) causes a hidden pandemic, with more than half the world's population having been or to be infected in the absence of an available vaccine to date. It is, in a sense, hidden because infection in immunocompetent individuals is rarely symptomatic, and despite their significant prevalence (1% of live births), congenital infections result in a sequelae of varying severities, potentially going unnoticed. 

Nevertheless, congenital HCMV infection is the most common cause of permanent neurological defects (1–2 per thousand live births), with a high human, societal and economic cost. HCMV infection also threatens immunocompromised subjects in iatrogenic or pathological ways, as well as complicating solid organ transplantation.

After the primary infection and throughout the life of the host, HCMV maintains a state of latency, the control of which continuously involves the immune system and threatens the vascular system. Thus, HCMV is suspected of playing a key role in immunosenescence or vasculosenescence. HCMV has also been associated with certain cancers and autoimmunity.

HCMV is a fascinating pathogen. It has already been associated with our lineage millions of years ago, which has allowed it to adapt admirably to its host. The latency and reactivation of HCMV are far from being fully understood. From the expression of its vast genome to the formation of its tegument and envelope, HCMV combines innumerable molecular tools to subvert the immune response, and control the host cell from its membrane receptors to epigenetic dynamics. Thus, HCMV also has much to teach us about the functioning of our own cells.

For this special Issue of Pathogens, we invite you to submit novel manuscripts addressing timely and relevant studies concerning cytomegalovirus infection, in the form of original research articles, reviews, or case reports, should they use cell or animal models or clinical or translational studies. Manuscripts highlighting topics such as, for example, HCMV evolution, infection, latency, pathophysiology, the connection to the host immune response, as well as prognoses or therapy are very welcome. We look forward to your contribution.

Dr. Stéphane Chavanas
Guest Editor

Manuscript Submission Information

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• cytomegalovirus
• infection
• immune response
• virus–host interactions
• congenital