Alphaherpesviruses: Molecular Virology (Hardcover) — Edited by Sandra K. Weller

Description

Alphaherpesviruses remain some of the most intensively studied DNA viruses because they combine clinical importance with biological complexity. This scholarly hardcover volume, edited by Sandra K. Weller, brings together expert perspectives on the molecular and cellular strategies used by key human alphaherpesviruses—herpes simplex virus type 1 and 2 (HSV-1/HSV-2) and varicella-zoster virus (VZV).

A central theme is persistence: alphaherpesviruses establish lifelong latency in the peripheral nervous system and can reactivate under specific biological conditions. The book examines how these viruses replicate, regulate gene expression, assemble, enter cells, and—critically—how they interact with (and circumvent) host defenses in order to persist and re-emerge.

Across its chapters, the volume surveys major research areas including transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, translational control, virion entry, capsid assembly, and the role of microRNAs in infection. It also addresses virus–host interactions such as apoptosis and cellular stress pathways, autophagy, DNA damage response, interferon-mediated responses, and contemporary directions in immunity and vaccine development—making it a strong fit for researchers and advanced students working on herpesvirus biology, latency, and chronic infection dynamics.

Readical note: This is a high-density academic reference. If you’re building a serious virology shelf (or supporting lab work / graduate study), this one earns its space.