A new study analyzed HHV-6 genetic sequences in the cord blood of infants with transplacentally-acquired HHV-6.  The sequences were found to be identical to those of their ciHHV-6 mothers, and divergent from the sequences of other known HHV-6 strains.  These findings suggest that ciHHV-6 can become reactivated and then acquired transplacentally, contributing to the newly described HHV-6 congenital infection.  READ MORE

Dr. Steven Jacobson's lab at the US National Institute of Health has reported findings from their newly developed primate model of HHV-6 infection.  Animals were inoculated with HHV-6A and HHV-6B both intranasally and intravenously, then intensely monitored clinically, immunologically, and radiologically for 25 weeks post-inoculation. The group has already identified several important distinctions between both viral species and route of viral transmission, including the observation of distinct neurological symptoms in some populations.  This model of infection will enable researchers to study how these viruses may trigger or contribute to disease, and will open the door for preclinical testing of potential interventional strategies specific to HHV-6A and HHV-6B.  READ MORE

Previous studies have demonstrated that HHV-6 infection is associated with acute graft rejection among renal transplant recipients (Caiola 2012).  However, a new study from UNIFESP in Brazil indicates that active HHV-6 infection may play a role in patients with renal failure prior to transplantation as well.  READ MORE

The field of HHV-6 is expanding rapidly, as is evidenced by the record number of attendees already registered to attend this year's 8th International Conference on HHV-6 & HHV-7.  We have also received more abstract submissions for the scientific program than ever before.  There is still limited time to reserve your spot at this meeting, which will include over 100 presentations on the latest findings in the field by leading laboratories and experts from around the world.  

REGISTER TODAY!