Herpes Simplex virus (HSV) 2 Lysate Antigen
HSV 2 antigen is prepared by culture of virus in mammalian cells using a protocol optimised for maximum particle yield. At the appropriate time, infected cells are washed in saline then disrupted to release virus particles by freeze thaw and sonication. Virus particles released from cells are partially purified by low speed centrifugation to remove cell debris.
Human herpes simplex virus (HSV), also known as human herpes virus (HHV), is a large enveloped double stranded DNA virus that belongs to the Herpesviridae family, subfamily Alphaherpesvirinae. Human HSV exists as two distinct serotypes, herpes simplex virus type -1 (HSV-1) and type -2 (HSV-2). Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are neurotrophic viruses that invade the central nervous system (CNS), where they replicate, and have the capacity to establish a latent infection (Nicoll, MP et al).
HSV-1 and HSV-2 are primarily transmitted from human-to-human through contact with mucosal surfaces and damaged skin, which are common sites of primary HSV infection. However, the route and site of infection differs for each serotype with some reported overlap. Typically, HSV-1 is transmitted through oral-to-oral contact giving rise to infection in the lips, eyes and oropharyngeal mucosa but HSV-1 infection can also occur in the genital tract through oral-genital contact. HSV-2 tends to be sexually transmitted via contact with infected mucosa or damaged skin associated with the genital tract. In most cases, individuals infected with either HSV-1 or HSV-2 for the first time remain asymptomatic or present with painful blisters or ulcers at the site of infection.
Both HSV-1 and HSV-2 are widespread, lifelong infections. Some symptoms of infection can be alleviated using antiviral medication but currently no prophylactic vaccine exists for either HSV-1 or HSV-2 (WHO factsheet).
References
Nicoll, MP et al. (2012). The molecular basis of herpes simplex virus latency. FEMS Microbiol Rev.36(3): 684–705.
World Health Organisation – Herpes Simplex Virus factsheet
Certificate of analysis
Safety Datasheet
