Turns out that a study found that the reactivation of VZV is associated with the use of certain drugs, such as methotrexate and certain biologic medications [2]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Reactivation of VZV usually occurs as a result of weakening of the immune system due to aging or a damaged immune system. Children may also develop shingles, however the risk of getting shingles increases when as you get older, usually at the age of 60 or older[1].

 

The development of technology in the modern era has contributed to our understanding of various diseases mechanisms and drug development methods. In addition, post clinical epidemiological research highly contributes to our understanding of whether a current treatment is efficient and to what extent.

Turns out that a study found that the reactivation of VZV is associated with the use of certain drugs, such as methotrexate and certain biologic medications [2].

This study results suggest the need for a vaccination against VZV in patients with psoriasis and various risk factors for shingles. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

 

I bet your next question might be, “What is Methotrexate?” Well, good question! Methotrexate is a medication used to treat certain types of cancer such as breast, skin, head and neck, or lung, as well as severe psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis [3]. According to Medline Plus, Methotrexate may decrease the activity of the immune system, and as a result develop serious infections [4]. Which actually may be the reason to the reactivation of VZV I mentioned, though the actual reason for reactivation was not discussed in the study.

In actual fact, Psoriasis and rheumatoid arthritis are a chronic inflammatory disorders of the immune system [5-6], in which the body actually attacks itself. This causes a problem: on the one hand, there is a need to regulate and control the immune system, and on the other hand, if the immune system is too down regulated, the body won’t be able to fight latent infections. Therefore, this study results suggest the need for a vaccination against VZV in patients with psoriasis and various risk factors for shingles.
References
1. CDC.gov – “Shingles (Herpes Zoster)” – Prevention & Treatment. Last Reviewed on May 1, 2014.
http://www.cdc.gov/shingles/about/prevention-treatment.html
2. Family Practice News – Methotrexate and biologics linked to higher zoster risk in psoriasis. Published on March 22, 2015.
3. Drugs.com – Methotrexate. Last revised on January 6, 2015.
http://www.drugs.com/methotrexate.html
4. Medline Plus – Methotrexate. Last revised May 15, 2014.
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/druginfo/meds/a682019.html
5. Psoriasisconnect.com – Psoriasis and your immune system.
http://www.psoriasisconnect.com/learn/psoriasis-and-immune-sys.jsp
6. Shah, Ankur. Harrison’s Principle of Internal Medicine (18th ed.). United States: McGraw Hill. p. 2738.

Turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

But before we answer that question, what is actually green tea?
Green tea is made from the leaves of the plant Camellia Sinensis, and may be consumed as a beverage, or as an extract to serve as medicine.

Even back then, chinese people identified it’s health benefits. Turns out that tea leaves contain two unique active compounds named methylxanthines and flavonoids.

Methylxanthines include caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline, which are a group of substances that are present in small quantities. The caffeine affects thinking and alertness, and is thought to stimulate the nervous system, heart and muscles by increasing the release of chemicals in the brain.

Flavonoids are responsible for most of its beneficial effects such as assisting in prevention of inflammation and cancer, lessen joint degeneration and help prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Even more strikingly, turns out that flavonoids are able to fight the Human Papilloma Virus (HPV), as well as reduce growths of abnormal cells in the cervix caused by the virus [2-3].

And it doesn’t end there. Green tea extract is the first botanical agent approved by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for prescription use and is indicated as a treatment for external genital and perianal warts [3].

There are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement.

In a matter of fact, there are other natural antiviral remedies that contain Camellia Sinesis Extract (green tea extract), such as Novirin, a natural antiviral dietary supplement. Its formula contains five natural ingredients: Selenium, Camellia Sinesis Extract, Quercetin, Cinnamomum Extract, and Licorice Extract. The first ingredient is a trace element, and the other four are plant extracts. Each ingredient and its dose were chosen through a scientific approach.

Additionally, this formula was found to reduce HPV symptoms in two separate post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4]. So it really works. And apparently it is effective against other viruses as well such as herpes virus, shingles virus, Cytomegallovirus and more.

Well, I myself love my cup of coffee every morning, but I sure am going to try having a cup of green tea instead every second day.

References:
1. Dattner, Christine; Boussabba, Sophie (2003), Emmanuelle Javelle, ed., The Book of Green Tea, Universe Books, p. 13,
2. Doan HQ1, Nguyen HP, Rady P, Tyring SK. “Expression Patterns of Immune-Associated Genes in External Genital and Perianal Warts Treated with Sinecatechins.” Viral Immunol. 2015 Mar 16.
3. Tyring SK “Effect of Sinecatechins on HPV-Activated Cell Growth and Induction of Apoptosis.” J Clin Aesthet Dermatol. 2012 Feb;5(2):34-41.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

Few research suggests that the herpes virus, may cause fertility problems in men. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Nowadays, many couples have difficulties conceiving. It may involve both partners, and may be attributable to various reasons. Few of the main causes of male infertility includes abnormal sperm production or function, problems with the delivery of sperm, overexposure to certain chemicals and toxins and damage related to cancer and its treatment, whereas causes of female infertility include ovulation disorders, uterine or cervical abnormalities, thyroid problems, cancer and its treatment and more [1].

Well, apparently those aren’t the only reasons for infertility.

Few research suggests that the herpes virus, especially (HSV-2), which normally causes genital herpes, may cause fertility problems in men.

These studies stated that infertility may be caused either by directly invading the male genital tract cells, or by indirectly causing local inflammatory or immunological response that could worsen reproductive functions [2-3].

The bottom line is that HSV may make it harder for a couple to conceive.

So here is some advice for women with herpes: try to conceive during your ovulating period and only when you aren’t having an outbreak, that is, when symptoms are not evident. And anyway, if you and your partner are witnessing difficulties to conceive, it is important you consult your doctor.
References:
1. http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/infertility/basics/causes/con-20034770
2. Seyed Hamidreza Monavari,a, Mostafa Salehi Vaziri,b Mohammadali Khalili,c Mahmoud Shamsi-Shahrabadi,b Hossein Keyvani,b Hamidreza Mollaei,b and Mehdi Fazlalipourb “Asymptomatic seminal infection of herpes simplex virus: impact on male infertility.” The Journal of Biomedical Research. Published Online in 2012.
3. el Borai N1, Inoue M, Lefèvre C, Naumova EN, Sato B, Yamamura M. “Detection of herpes simplex DNA in semen and menstrual blood of individuals attending an infertility clinic.” Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research. Published in February 1997.

The cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system!

There’s nothing like a nice big slab of chocolate! When you feel blue, before an exam, or even when you’re just craving for something sweet. However, chocolate is usually associated with unhealthy eating, which is mainly due to its high sugar and cream levels. But them, what is I told you, that chocolate is actually very very healthy?? Turns out that quality dark chocolate has remarkable health benefits [1]!

Dark chocolate is one of the most strongest antioxidants in the world. Cacao, from which chocolate is made, contains 15-20 times more antioxidants than blueberries and green tea! Pretty crazy huh?

And it doesn’t end there. It also contains stimulant substances such as caffeine and theobromine, which can improve brain function in the short term. Therefore it is recommended to eat three squares of chocolate before writing and exam- it will keep you concentrated for a least another hour and a half!

Other than being rich in fiber, Iron and Magnesium, it contains flavonols (plant compound) which improves blood flow to the brain thus improving cognitive function and memory.

Even more strikingly, according to a study, the cocoa present in dark chocolate boosts the immune system by influencing the body’s inflammatory response.

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. For more information click www.Novirin.com

Many studies have demonstrated cocoa’s ability to reduce the concentration of molecules in the body that are involved in inflammatory response [2-3].

So in a matter of fact, by having 3 squares of dark chocolate a day, you may help your immune system to fight viruses, especially those latent viruses that manage to hide away from your immune system!

In addition to dark chocolate, you may also take Novirin and Gene-Eden-VIR to boost your immune system. They are natural antiviral supplements, backed by clinical studies that showed their effectiveness against a broad range of latent viruses. Such viruses includes Herpes, HPV, Hepatitis, CMV (Cytomegallovirus) shingles virus and EBV (Epstein Barr virus) [4].

But wait, that fact that dark chocolate is so healthy doesn’t mean you should reach for the Reese’s and M&M. Milk chocolate contains high levels of sugar and cream, and low levels of cacao. So milk chocolate isn’t as healthy as dark chocolate. So remember, When buying dark chocolate, make sure the chocolate you buy is with at least 70% cocoa.

References
1. Forbes.com – Cohen, J. “12 Best Foods To Boost Brain Power.” Published February 5, 2015.
2. Francisco J. Pérez-Cano, Malen Massot-Cladera, Àngels Franch, Cristina Castellote, and Margarida Castell. “The effects of cocoa on the immune system.” Front Pharmacol. 2013; 4: 71.
3. Borreli, L. “Benefits of Chocolate: The Common Cold And 4 Illnesses That Can Be Treated By Chocolate Consumption.” Published August 8, 2013.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

According to a study, Luteolin, which is found in celery, calms inflammation of the brain, which according to doctors and scientists is believed to be the primary cause of neurodegeneration. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Nowadays, people have become more and more aware of their health and well being. This awareness is expressed in frequent workout, getting more sleep, yoga and Pilates practicing, frequent family quality time and healthy eating.

A healthy diet is reflected in consuming less processed food and more fruit and vegetables. Out of all fruit and vegetables, celery is usually least consumed due to various reasons.

First, it has a strong dominant taste that many people can’t happen to get used to. Secondly, it is composed of these long strips that some people find hard to chew on. Anyway, regardless of that, turns out that celery is even healthier than we thought.

According to a study, Luteolin, which is found in celery, calms inflammation of the brain, which according to doctors and scientists is believed to be the primary cause of neurodegeneration. So in a matter of fact, luteolin can prevent the onset of degeneration in the brain [1].

This fact is very interesting, since some viruses, such as the varicella zoster virus (VZV) are known to cause inflammation in the brain [2]. Therefore, adding more celery to our diet may help prevent and even fight infection with VZV!

Some viruses, such as the varicella zoster virus (VZV) are known to cause inflammation in the brain [2]. Adding more celery to our diet may help prevent and even fight infection with VZV! Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

According to several studies, it is recommended not to leave celery in the refrigerator for more that 5-7 days since it loses its health qualities. In addition, you should wait to chop up your celery just before adding it to a salad or cooked dish, rather that leaving it stored chopped in the refrigerator overnight. It will help to preserve its maximum nutrient potential [3-5].
There are many ways to incorporate celery in our diet, from chicken and celery stir-fry, to creamy celery soup– everything is possible! You may find these delicious recipes useful!
Do you have an idea for a recipe with celery you’d like to share with us??

References
1. Jang, Saebyeol, Keith W. Kelley, and Rodney W. Johnson. “Luteolin reduces IL-6 production in microglia by inhibiting JNK phosphorylation and activation of AP-1.” Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences 105.21 (2008): 7534-7539.
2. Nagel MA1, Gilden D. “The relationship between herpes zoster and stroke.” Curr Neurol Neurosci Rep. 2015 Apr;15(4):534
3. Hostetler GL, Riedl KM, and Schwartz SJ. Endogenous enzymes, heat, and pH affect flavone profiles in parsley (Petroselinum crispum var. neapolitanum) and celery (Apium graveolens) during juice processing. J Agric Food Chem. 2012 Jan 11;60(1):202-8. Epub 2011 Dec 30.
4. Rizzo V and Muratore G. Effects of packaging on shelf life of fresh celery. Journal of Food Engineering, Volume 90, Issue 1, January 2009, Pages 124-128.
5. Vina SZ and Chaves AR. Antioxidant responses in minimally processed celery during refrigerated storage. Food Chemistry, Volume 94, Issue 1, January 2006, Pages 68-74.

It’s not easy to talk to your partner about being tested for STD’s, mainly because he or she might think of it as offensive. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Meeting a new partner can be very exciting. Usually, a new relationship begins when you least expect it. And when you come to think of it, Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STD’s) also come when you least expect it!
It’s not easy to talk to your partner about being tested for STD‘s, mainly because he or she might think of it as offensive. However, it is very much important! Chances are your partner will be very happy to hear how responsible you are about your sexual health.

The importance of having the “talk” before having sex is crucial!

Even if you’re planning to use a condom, infection isn’t necessarily prevented. Various STD‘s such as herpes and HPV can be transmitted even without showing any symptoms, and even when using a condom.
But then, how does one bring up such an embarrassing subject?? Here are few ideas for conversation starters.

“Getting tested will help us know for sure! So why take a chance?? It’s only a few days!”

“I’m not saying you are infected with a STD, I just think that getting tested will help protect the both of us.”

”Most STDs, including HIV, are treatable and many are curable. The sooner we know, the sooner we can start treatment.”

Notifying your doctor the number of sex partners you’ve had, as well as type of protection you used, is very important so he can evaluate your sexual history. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

“Even if the test will show positive for one of us, it doesn’t mean we have to end our relationship! There are various ways to prevent transmission.”

“We’ll be able to enjoy the sex more, if we know it is safe!”

“Did you know, that some people who are infected with a STD don’t even know it, since they may not be showing any symptoms!”

“Getting tested for STD’s isn’t painful at all! The test includes a urine sample, and in some cases a blood sample, and the results arrive very quickly!”

“How about getting tested together??”

After both of you agree to get tested, each of you must notify your doctor about the number of sex partners you’ve had, and type of protection you used. In addition, tell him if you’ve ever used drugs with needles or ever had sex without a condom. This information will help the doctor evaluate your sexual history and determine the risk factors.

If as a result to such a conversation, you partner will end the relationship, it means that it wasn’t meant to be! Remember, your health is the most important! Relationships come and go, however, you are with yourself until the end of your life.

So, do you have any ideas for conversation starters I might have missed?

Turns out that many of the tested tablets contained potential allergens that weren’t listed in the ingredients, while others didn’t contain the supposed active ingredient at all. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Most people think that herbal supplements are always safe to use. They’re natural, so how harmful can they be? That’s usually true, if you know what you’re taking. But what if someone tried to sell you pure gold, while it is actually gold painted bricks?

The New York State attorney general’s office claimed to have tested store-brand supplements from Wal-Mart, Target, Walgreens, and GNC. Turns out that many of the tested tablets contained potential allergens that weren’t listed in the ingredients, while others didn’t contain the supposed active ingredient at all [1].

So in actual fact, people with allergies to those hidden ingredients are at risk. As a result, the retailers were accused for selling potentially dangerous herbal supplements, and were demanded to remove the tested products from their shelves.

Such a case is not pleasant, although somewhat expected, since supplements aren’t minded as drugs, and therefore aren’t put through the same FDA strict requirements that drugs are.

So the main question is, how can we make sure that the natural remedies we purchase really contain what it says on the bottle?
Well, there are several ways. First, various companies and scientists conduct clinical studies on natural remedies. For instance, a study showed that yerba maté (a plant originally from the subtropical region of South America) beverages and supplements may be helpful in fighting obesity [2]. A different study examined how an antiviral natural remedy decreased viral symptoms in individuals infected with the Human Papilomavirus, Herpes, Epstein Barr virus, Cytomegalovirus, and Hepatitis C virus [3].
Secondly, there are few non profit groups, such as NSF and USP that certify various supplements in terms of their ingredients, methods of manufacture, etc. The companies whose supplements meet the group’s standards are allowed to carry the official group’s seal on their labels. Therefore searching for those labels is a fairly good indication for the supplements quality. However, note that one cannot count solely on third party supplement certification, since there are other factors that should be taken into consideration. For instance, this certification procedure is very expensive, therefore new companies, with excellent efficient supplements, and low budget, can’t yet afford such a procedure.

Even though supplements are OTC (over the counter), they can negatively interact with other medication you are taking. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

And lastly, you must always consult your physician before administering a natural supplement. Even though supplements are OTC (over the counter), they can negatively interact with other medication you are taking. In addition, physicians are usually familiar with different brands in terms of efficiency and safety.

This recent event which occurred isn’t very encouraging, however, just because it occurred, doesn’t mean supplements are bad for you. Basically, it means you must be extra careful while purchasing supplements. Saying that, it is important you follow the three methods outlined above in order to ensure the quality of your supplements, and your health.
References:

1. http://well.blogs.nytimes.com/2015/02/03/new-york-attorney-general-targets-supplements-at-major-retailers/
2. Gambero, Alessandra, and Marcelo L. Ribeiro. “The Positive Effects of Yerba Maté (Ilex paraguariensis) in Obesity.” Nutrients 7.2 (2015): 730-750.
3. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

While some viruses won’t cause any harm to a child or adult, others may cause severe health and developmental problems in a fetus or newborn baby with a compromised immune system.

I’d like to focus on the Varicella zoster virus (VZV). Wait, perhaps you’re more familiar with the chickenpox virus? Well, in actual fact, it is exactly the same virus. This virus causes both shingles and chickenpox. This first phase of this virus is chickenpox, whereas the second phase is always shingles. In between the two phases the virus establishes a lifelong latent infection.

So in a matter of fact, when the immune system is weakened, for instance in case of chemotherapy, AIDS, in neonates or during a post transplant treatment, the VZV virus can reactivate and awaken from a latent state, causing the disease known as shingles as well as other, serious complications [3].

An infection with VZV during the first 28 weeks of the pregnancy increases the risk of damage to the eyes, legs, arms, brain, bladder or bowel in 1%-2% of the babies [1].

Therefore, it is very important that women who aren’t sure that they have had chickenpox must avoid anyone with the infection. It is important to note that pregnant women who have already had chickenpox do not need to avoid contact, because they have already been immunized against the virus [2].

I bet your next question might be, can I catch shingles or chickenpox from a person who has shingles? Well, you can catch chickenpox from being exposed to a person with shingles if you have not had chickenpox yourself. However, you cannot catch shingles from a person with chickenpox, or catch shingles from a person with shingles. As I noted above, Shingles is a later phase of the chickenpox.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

In some cases, women may be unsure whether they have been infected with the virus in the past or not. So then, how should they know whether to be careful or not? Well, they can ask their GP for a blood test that check immunity to the virus.

But hold on, what about treatment for chickenpox?

Turns out there is an effective vaccine that is administered during childhood in certain countries such as USA, Canada and Australia [3].

In addition to the vaccine there are antiviral pills such as aciclovir that can reduce the severity of chickenpox, However, theses pills don’t eliminate the virus from the body but stop the virus from replicating.

Adults and teenagers over the age of 14 are more likely than children to have complications resulting from chickenpox, therefore, they should take the medication. However, they should take it only if they start within 24 hours of the rash first developing. If medication is first administered after this time it is not likely to have much of an effect [3]. Additionally, there is natural treatment. The oral antiviral product Novirin has a formula that was shown to be effective in reducing viral symptoms in two post-marketing clinical studies that followed FDA guidelines [4].

So, if you’re pregnant, or planning, you must show responsibility by being aware of the various viral infections that can harm you and your baby.

References:
1. Russell, R. “New guidelines on chickenpox and pregnancy” – WebMD.com. Published January 21, 2015.
2. The Herald – “CHICKENPOX ALERT FOR PREGNANT WOMEN.” – Published January 21, 2015
3. Patient.co.uk – “Chickenpox in Adults and Teenagers.” Last Checked August 21, 2014.
4. Polansky, H. Itzkovitz, E. Gene-Eden-VIR Is Antiviral: Results of a Post Marketing Clinical Study. Published in September 2013.

The majority of people who test positive for HSV-2 have never been officially diagnosed with genital herpes, so in a matter of fact, most infected people don’t even know they carry the virus. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Health, is freedom.
Always.
Not the amount of money you have in the bank, not which car you own and not how big and well designed your house is.
Only health.

Health is a value that allows you to enjoy all your goals and things you achieved in life.
Remember that.

Did you know, that other people may be harming your freedom without knowing it? So actually, YOU are the one harming your health without knowing it! Sounds pretty crazy huhhh?
Turns out that, according to a new study, up to 400 million people may transmit the genital herpes virus (HSV-2) to their sex partners [1].

The majority of people who test positive for HSV-2 have never been officially diagnosed with genital herpes (HSV-2), so in a matter of fact, most infected people don’t even know they carry the virus [2].

Taking responsibility of your health is nothing to be ashamed about, thus asking your new partner to be tested for herpes prior to sexual intercourse is very much important! Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

As noted before, there are millions of HSV infected individuals who don’t know they are infected, so actually, uninfected individuals may be unaware of having sex with an infected person.
There was hope that herpes transmission would be prevented with the discovery of drugs that prevent herpes outbreaks, however, according to different evidence, this may not be true [3].

So even if a person is aware of being infected with genital herpes (HSV-2),and is taking anti-herpes drugs that prevent herpes outbreaks, he or she can still infect their sex partners.

The problem is that people are busy worrying about HIV infection, while the likelihood of someone to become infected with HIV is far lower than herpes and other sexually transmitted diseases (STD’s).
Taking responsibility of your health is nothing to be ashamed about, thus asking your new partner to be tested for herpes prior to sexual intercourse is very much important!

References:
1. Katharine J. Looker ,Amalia S. Magaret, Katherine M. E. Turner, Peter Vickerman, Sami L. Gottlieb, Lori M. Newman. “Global Estimates of Prevalent and Incident Herpes Simplex Virus Type 2 Infections in 2012.” Published: January 21, 2015DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0114989
2. Melnick, M. “How Many Patients Spread Herpes, But Don’t Even Know They Have It?” Time.com – Published April 12, 2011.
3. DeNoon, D. “Got Genital Herpes? You’re Still Infectious, Even if Drugs Cut Symptoms.” WebMD.com – Published January 5, 2012.

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Treating viruses isn’t an easy task. They take over the cell, use its activities in their favor, and therefore are considered parasites [1].

An important question we should discuss is, why don’t doctors prescribe antibiotics for viral infections? Well, the answer lies within the bacteria’s structure.

Unlike viruses, bacteria are very similar to each other and different from us humans. This is reflected, for example, in very conserved protein elements different from ours found on their outer surface [2].

Antibiotics target those specific conserved elements which are significant for bacteria activity, thus eliminating the bacteria from the body. This fact becomes a problem when antibiotics eliminate good bacteria from the body as well [3].

Viruses, are actually parasites, and unlike bacteria, their elements aren’t conserved between one another and strikingly, in some cases, they mimic elements we have in our cells. This fact makes it difficult for our immune system to recognize viruses as a foreign element [1].

Therefore, treating viruses requires high creativity and very deep thought from doctors, researchers and pharmaceutical companies.

Over the years, the scientific community finally realized that understanding the molecular process of viral infection is important and will aid in the development of antiviral drugs.
For instance, acyclovir takes advantage of a specific viral molecular pathway and thus prevents further viral replication without affecting the normal cellular processes.

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5]. Image by: Freedigitalphotos.net

Turns out that a research team investigated whether inhibitors of a specific viral protein would stop and delay the replication of HSV-1 and HSV-2. Strikingly, the inhibitors stopped accumulation of viral genomes and infectious particles and blocked the viral replication cycle [4]. Do I smell new herpes treatment???

These results are very encouraging since they enable an additional pathway to fight the virus. And it doesn’t end there, after scientists discover the mechanism by which this drug inhibits the spread of the virus, it can be used along with other antivirals as a cocktail, similar to HIV treatment, therefore preventing resistance.

Turns out that one of the tested inhibitors has already proven effective in animals and another is found in a topical anti fungal already FDA approved for use! [5]

Research team hopes that herpes virus changes very slowly. That gives them a better chance at investigating something that can work for a long time without allowing the virus to mutate as rapidly as currently approved treatments do [4-5].
References:
1. Koonin EV, Senkevich TG, Dolja VV. The ancient Virus World and evolution of cells. Biol. Direct. 2006;1:29.
2. Woese CR, Fox GE (1977). “Phylogenetic structure of the prokaryotic domain: the primary kingdoms”. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences of the United States of America 74 (11): 5088–90.
3. Goodman, Louis, & Gilman, Alfred (1941). The Pharmacological Basis of Therapeutics (1st ed.) New York: The Macmillan Company.
4. J. E. Tavis, H. Wang, A. E. Tollefson, B. Ying, M. Korom, X. Cheng, F. Cao, K. L. Davis, W. S. M. Wold, L. A. Morrison. Inhibitors of Nucleotidyltransferase Superfamily Enzymes Suppress Herpes Simplex Virus Replication.Antimicrobial Agents and Chemotherapy, 2014; 58 (12): 7451
5. Saint Louis University. “Enzyme inhibitors suppress herpes simplex virus replication, study finds.” ScienceDaily. ScienceDaily, 18 December 2014. <www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2014/12/141218131937.htm>.