Cytomegaloviruses

Cytomegaloviruses, members of the beta herpesvirus classification group, are genetically the most complex herpesviruses to replicate in human and animal cells. This publication offers a comprehensive review of what is currently known about cytomegalovirus latency, replication and pathogenesis. The first two chapters describe the sites of latency, dissemination of infected cells in the host, and the target organs for viral replication and pathogenesis. These are followed by a review of cytomegalovirus laboratory strains and recombinant viruses which are used for investigating replication in cell culture and pathogenesis in the mouse model. The molecular aspects of immediate early, early and late gene transcriptional regulation and expression receive detailed attention. Subsequent chapters are devoted to viral DNA synthesis, viral capsid assembly, DNA packaging and the assembly of infectious and noninfectious particles. Finally, the viral glycoproteins in the infected cell and in the viral envelope are considered and characterized in relation to the biology of the virus and the host immune response. Written by experienced investigators, this collection of reviews serves as an excellent source of information for virologists, molecular biologists and immunologists.