🔍Viral infections can persist in multiple organs, not just the respiratory tract
📝There is a significant heterogeneity in how people respond to viral infections
🧬The combination of viral proteins and RNA triggers immune responses that can lead to chronic inflammation
💊Antiviral treatments like paxlovid are being studied to target viral persistence
🔬Deep immune phenotyping can help identify potential responders to specific treatments
Can viral infections persist in organs other than the respiratory tract?
—Yes, viral infections can establish reservoirs in multiple organs.
Why do some people have a more severe and prolonged response to viral infections?
—There is significant heterogeneity in how people's immune systems respond to viral infections.
What triggers chronic inflammation in viral infections?
—The combination of viral proteins and RNA can stimulate immune responses that result in chronic inflammation.
Are there any treatments available for viral persistence?
—Antiviral treatments like paxlovid are currently being studied to target viral persistence.
How can we identify potential responders to specific treatments?
—Deep immune phenotyping can help identify individuals who may benefit from specific treatments.
00:00In this interview with Professor Akiko Iwasaki, we delve into the persistence of viral infections and its implications.
02:26Viral infections can establish reservoirs in organs beyond the respiratory tract, leading to lingering symptoms and inflammation.
03:14People's immune responses to viral infections vary greatly, resulting in differences in disease severity and duration.
06:31The combination of viral proteins and RNA can stimulate immune responses that lead to chronic inflammation.
09:03Antiviral treatments like paxlovid are being studied to target viral persistence and alleviate symptoms.
10:41Deep immune phenotyping can help identify individuals who may respond better to specific treatments.
