Hormonal influence on immune-viral dynamics

Hormonal regulation plays a fundamental role in maintaining physiological homeostasis, modulating processes such as metabolism, stress response, reproduction, and immune function. Emerging research shows that these same hormonal pathways can significantly influence viral pathogenesis by altering host susceptibility, immune responses, and viral replication dynamics. Viruses often exploit hormone regulated receptors and signaling networks to enhance their infectivity or persistence, while hormonal fluctuations, such as those occurring during stress, pregnancy, or endocrine disorders—can reshape antiviral defenses. Conversely, viral infections can disrupt endocrine function, creating a bidirectional relationship that complicates disease progression. Understanding this complex interplay between the endocrine and immune systems is essential for uncovering mechanisms of viral disease severity, identifying at risk populations, and developing targeted therapeutic strategies.The goal of this research is to investigate how hormonal regulation shapes viral pathogenesis and to uncover the mechanisms through which endocrine factors influence viral infection outcomes. Although hormones are known to modulate immune activity, the specific pathways through which they affect viral entry, replication, latency, and immune evasion remain insufficiently understood. This gap limits our ability to predict infection severity in individuals experiencing hormonal fluctuations, such as during stress, puberty, pregnancy, or endocrine disorders. To address this, the research will examine hormone dependent changes in host cellular receptors, signaling pathways, and immune responses that viruses may exploit. Additionally, the project aims to identify how viral infections disrupt endocrine balance, creating feedback loops that worsen disease progression. By integrating molecular, immunological, and systems biology approaches, this research seeks to clarify these interactions and ultimately guide the development of targeted antiviral strategies and therapeutic interventions that consider endocrine status as a key determinant of viral disease susceptibility and severity.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses a broad range of investigations into the interactions between hormonal signaling and viral disease, yet is defined by a focus on molecular, cellular, systemic, and clinical dimensions of immune–endocrine–viral dynamics. We encourage submissions that address, but are not limited to, the following themes:- Hormone-regulated expression of host cell receptors targeted by viruses- Immunoendocrine signaling pathways and their effects on viral susceptibility and immune evasion- Sex-based differences in responses to viral infection- Influence of stress hormones and chronic stress on antiviral immunity- Impact of pregnancy and reproductive hormones on viral pathogenesis- Mechanisms of viral disruption of endocrine homeostasis- Feedback loops between viral infections and hormonal imbalances- Systems biology and integrative models of immune–endocrine–viral interactionsAuthors may submit a variety of manuscript types. Contributions that integrate interdisciplinary approaches or propose novel therapeutic insights based on hormonal–viral interactions are particularly welcome. Topic editors: Dr. MUZAFAR AHMAD MACHA, Sheikh Umar Ahmad Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/77559/hormonal-influence-on-immune-viral-dynamics