Cercopithecine betaherpesvirus 5

Cercopithecine betaherpesvirus 5 (CeHV-5) is a species of virus in the genus Cytomegalovirus, which is part of the family Herpesviridae. This virus is known to infect non-human primates, specifically those in the family Cercopithecidae, which includes various species of Old World monkeys.

Virology

CeHV-5 is a member of the Betaherpesvirinae subfamily, which is characterized by a slow replication cycle and the ability to establish lifelong latent infections in the host. Like other cytomegaloviruses, CeHV-5 has a large double-stranded DNA genome and a complex virion structure.

Genome

The genome of CeHV-5 is composed of linear double-stranded DNA, which encodes a variety of proteins necessary for viral replication and immune evasion. The genome is similar in structure to that of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), with homologous genes that perform similar functions.

Replication Cycle

The replication cycle of CeHV-5 involves attachment to host cell receptors, entry into the cell, and transport of the viral genome to the nucleus. Once inside the nucleus, the viral DNA is transcribed and replicated, leading to the production of new virions. These virions are assembled in the cytoplasm and released from the cell to infect new cells.

Pathogenesis

CeHV-5 primarily infects cells of the immune system, such as monocytes and macrophages, as well as epithelial cells. Infected cells can exhibit cytomegaly, a characteristic enlargement, which is a hallmark of cytomegalovirus infections. The virus can cause both acute and latent infections, with the potential for reactivation under conditions of immunosuppression.

Host Range and Transmission

CeHV-5 is known to infect a range of Old World monkey species, including macaques and baboons. Transmission occurs through close contact, bodily fluids, and possibly through vertical transmission from mother to offspring. The virus is not known to infect humans.

Clinical Significance

While CeHV-5 does not typically cause severe disease in its natural hosts, it can be a concern in captive primate populations where stress and other factors may lead to reactivation and spread of the virus. Understanding CeHV-5 is important for managing the health of primate colonies in research and conservation settings.

Research and Implications

Studying CeHV-5 provides insights into the biology of cytomegaloviruses and their interactions with the host immune system. It also serves as a model for understanding human cytomegalovirus infections, which can cause significant disease in immunocompromised individuals.

Also see

• Cytomegalovirus
• Herpesviridae
• Betaherpesvirinae
• Viral pathogenesis
• Non-human primate research