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

Description

Alphaherpesviruses: Molecular Virology provides an authoritative and up-to-date examination of one of the most intensively studied groups of DNA viruses. Alphaherpesviruses include several medically significant human pathogens—most notably herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1), herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2), and varicella-zoster virus (VZV)—which are responsible for diseases ranging from cold sores and genital herpes to chickenpox and shingles.

A defining feature of alphaherpesviruses is their capacity to establish lifelong latent infections within the peripheral nervous system. Maintaining this persistent state requires sophisticated mechanisms that allow the virus to evade host immune defenses and intrinsic antiviral responses. Understanding how these viruses enter latency, how they are reactivated, and how they manipulate host cellular pathways remains a central challenge in virology and infectious disease research.

Edited by Sandra K. Weller, this volume brings together leading researchers to synthesize current knowledge of alphaherpesvirus molecular and cellular biology. The chapters explore core viral processes such as transcriptional regulation, DNA replication, translational control, viral entry, capsid assembly, and the role of viral microRNAs. The book also examines virus–host interactions in depth, including apoptosis, autophagy, subversion of host protein quality control systems, DNA damage response pathways, interferon signaling, immune evasion, and vaccine development strategies.

In addition to fundamental virology, the volume addresses emerging therapeutic concepts, including the use of alphaherpesviruses as oncolytic vectors in cancer therapy. This combination of basic science and translational relevance makes the book particularly valuable for laboratories working at the intersection of molecular virology, immunology, and antiviral research.

Designed as a reference work rather than an introductory text, Alphaherpesviruses: Molecular Virology is essential reading for researchers, clinicians, and advanced students working with herpesviruses or studying viral latency, persistence, and host–pathogen interactions. It is also a recommended addition to academic and institutional microbiology and virology libraries.