Evolution of antiviral host defenses against a backdrop of endogenous retroelements
Overview
Paper Summary
This review explores how remnants of ancient viruses embedded in our DNA (endogenous retroviruses) affect our ability to fight off new viral infections. These "viral fossils" can sometimes interfere with our immune responses, making us vulnerable, but they can also be co-opted into defense mechanisms, boosting our immunity.
Explain Like I'm Five
Our built-in virus fighters are sometimes confused by old viruses hiding in our DNA, which can make us more susceptible to new viruses but also help fight them off.
Possible Conflicts of Interest
George Kassiotis is a scientific co-founder of and consultant for EnaraBio and has consulted for other biotech companies. This potential conflict is noted in the paper's disclosures.
Rating Explanation
This review provides a comprehensive overview of the complex interplay between endogenous retroviruses and the host immune system. It effectively synthesizes a large body of research and presents a clear narrative of the evolutionary arms race between viruses and their hosts. The insights into how ancient viral remnants can both hinder and enhance our immune responses are valuable. The rating is slightly lowered due to the potential conflict of interest, although disclosed.
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