[The blocking effects of small interfering RNAs on RS-1 gene functions of herpes simplex virus type 2: new perspectives for targeted antiviral exposure].

ABSTRACT

A new target has been revealed for therapy for herpes simplex type 2. The target is RS1 mRNA whose activation is a key stage in regulating the expression of the early genes of herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2). The targeted knockdown of the function of this gene by small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) has been found to result in the complete suppression of HSV-2 infection. The designed interfering RNAs are able to interact with both HSV-1 and HSV-2. The findings suggest that siRNAs have protective properties against the cytopathic effect of HSV-2 and cause no toxicity to infected Vero cells.