Herpesviruses have long been considered genetically stable, but recent advances in sequencing technologies are reshaping this perception. A comprehensive review by Alejandro Ortigas-Vásquez and Moriah Szpara from Pennsylvania State University, published in the Annual Review of Virology, reveals the dynamic nature of herpesvirus genomes.
The study highlights how deep sequencing, long-read sequencing, and haplotype reconstruction are uncovering hidden layers of genomic diversity within herpesvirus populations. Contrary to previous beliefs, herpesviruses exhibit significant standing variation and can evolve faster than once thought.
The review emphasizes the critical role of mutation rates, natural selection, and genetic drift in shaping herpesvirus evolution. It also points out the limitations of traditional consensus genomes, which often fail to capture the true extent of viral diversity. Additionally, the research discusses how minor variants (MVs) and copy-number variants (CNVs) contribute to immune evasion and drug resistance, underscoring the virus’s ability to adapt rapidly.
This work challenges long-held paradigms and highlights the need for integrated sequencing approaches to fully understand viral evolution. By embracing these complexities, researchers move closer to developing more effective treatments and vaccines for herpesvirus-related diseases.
