PLOS: Herpes virus enters the body by softening cell nuclei.
Elchi.az reports that scientists have discovered that herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) is able to multiply rapidly in the body by softening cell nuclei. Researchers from the University of Jyväskylä in Finland came to this conclusion. The study was published in PLOS Pathogens. Herpes simplex virus is one of the most common viruses in humans: according to various estimates, it infects up to two-thirds of the world’s population. It most often causes rashes on the lips and skin, but in severe cases can damage the eyes and central nervous system. In addition, the virus remains in the body for life, periodically reactivating.
In their research, scientists investigated how DNA viruses that multiply in the host cell nucleus affect its structure and biomechanics. Experiments have shown that during HSV-1 infection, large regions form in the nucleus where the virus actively copies its DNA, which leads to a further loosening of the internal structure of the nucleus.
This is accompanied by an increase in nuclear volume, reorganization of chromatin, the form of DNA packaging, and disruption of the structure of the nuclear lamina, which is responsible for its stability. This occurs almost immediately after infection and increases virus replication. The main factor is not the destruction of the nuclear membrane, but the reduction of external mechanical stress affecting it.
According to scientists, the data obtained expands our understanding of how infections can fundamentally rebuild host cells. Understanding these processes will help develop new approaches to combat viruses, which are especially dangerous for people with weakened immune systems.
It was previously discovered that the common cold can cause Alzheimer’s disease.
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