Anti-viral and pro-inflammatory functions of Toll-like receptors during gamma-herpesvirus infections

Virol J. 2021 Nov 8;18(1):218. doi: 10.1186/s12985-021-01678-x.

Abstract

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) control anti-viral responses both directly in infected cells and in responding cells of the immune systems. Therefore, they are crucial for responses against the oncogenic γ-herpesviruses Epstein-Barr virus and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus and the related murine virus MHV68, which directly infect immune system cells. However, since these viruses also cause lifelong persistent infections, TLRs may also be involved in modulation of inflammation during latent infection and contribute to virus-driven tumorigenesis. This review summarizes work on both of these aspects of TLR/γ-herpesvirus interactions, as well as results showing that TLR activity can drive these viruses' re-entry into the replicative lytic cycle.

Keywords: EBV; Gammaherpesvirus; HHV-8; Immune evasion; KSHV; MHV68; Toll-like receptors.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antiviral Agents
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections*
  • Herpesviridae Infections*
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human
  • Herpesvirus 8, Human*
  • Mice
  • Toll-Like Receptors
  • Virus Latency
  • Virus Replication

Substances

  • Antiviral Agents
  • Toll-Like Receptors