Stress-associated immunomodulation and herpes simplex virus infections

Stress has been shown to modulate an individual's immune system through the release of certain signal molecules such as catecholamines, cytokines and glucocorticoids. These signal molecules can significantly alter the host im mune system and leave it susceptible to a primary or recurrent viral infect ion. Focusing on herpes simplex virus types-1 and -2 as examples, the autho rs explain how stress-associated immunomodulation can influence the recurre nce of herpes simplex viral infections. Specific signal molecules such as e pinephrine, interleukin-6, cyclic adenosine monophosphate, glucocorticoids and prostaglandins are upregulated during episodes of acute and chronic str ess and have been implicated as effecters of herpes simplex viral reactivat ion and recurrent disease. The authors suggest that the release of immunomo dulating signal molecules due to stress can compromise the host's cellular immune response and trigger herpes simplex viral reactivation. (C) 2001 Har court Publishers Ltd.