Viral Subversion of the Immune System

• Published in: Annual review of immunology Vol. 18; no. 1; pp. 861 - 926
• Main Authors: Tortorella, Domenico, Gewurz, Benjamin E, Furman, Margo H, Schust, Danny J, Ploegh, Hidde L
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Palo Alto, CA 94303-0139 Annual Reviews 01-01-2000; 4139 El Camino Way, P.O. Box 10139 Annual Reviews, Inc; USA
• Subjects: Animals; Antibody Formation - immunology; antigen presentation; Antigen Presentation - immunology; apoptosis; Apoptosis - immunology; CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes - immunology; complement; cytokines; Cytokines - immunology; Down-Regulation - immunology; Histocompatibility Antigens Class I - immunology; Histocompatibility Antigens Class II - immunology; Humans; Immune System - immunology; Immune System - virology; Killer Cells, Natural - immunology; viral evasion
• ISSN: 0732-0582; 1545-3278
• DOI: 10.1146/annurev.immunol.18.1.861

This review describes the diverse array of pathways and molecular targets
that are used by viruses to elude immune detection and destruction. These
include targeting of pathways for major histocompatibility complex-restricted
antigen presentation, apoptosis, cytokine-mediated signaling, and humoral
immune responses. The continuous interactions between host and pathogens during
their coevolution have shaped the immune system, but also the counter measures
used by pathogens. Further study of their interactions should improve our
ability to manipulate and exploit the various pathogens.