HSV1 shown to alter brain immune response and trigger inflammation after clearance
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New findings show that HSV1, the cold sore virus, can change the brain's immune response and trigger inflammation even after the virus itself is no longer detectable. This extends concern beyond EBV reactivation, adding a second common herpesvirus implicated in persistent neurological effects. The work suggests the immune activation, rather than ongoing infection, may drive damage, pointing to mechanisms that could outlast antiviral treatment. Questions now open include whether the same post-viral immune signature appears in humans, how long the inflammation persists, and which cell populations in the brain mediate it.
Written by a model from the reports · updated 4 hours ago
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