Viral Infection and Host Immunity: Mechanisms and Therapeutic Perspectives

Viral infections remain a significant global health challenge, as exemplified by recent pandemics. The complexity of virus-host interplay poses major clinical and scientific challenges, as the outcome of infection is determined by a complex interplay between viral factors and the host immune response. Understanding the precise molecular mechanisms by which viruses infect cells, evade or modulate host immunity, and the consequent immune-mediated pathogenesis is crucial for developing novel therapeutic and preventive strategies. This Research Topic aims to explore these critical aspects of virus-host interactions and welcomes studies that advance our understanding of viral infection mechanisms and host immune defenses. We aim to address key questions such as how viruses exploit host machinery, how innate and adaptive immune responses are activated and regulated, and the mechanisms of immune evasion. Ultimately, we hope to highlight research that bridges basic science discoveries with translational potential, contributing to the development of antivirals, vaccines, and immunomodulatory therapies.To gather further insights, we welcome submissions of Original Research, Review, Mini-Review, and Perspective articles that cover, but are not limited to, the following themes:- Mechanisms of viral entry, replication, and assembly.- Innate immune sensing of viruses and signaling pathways (e.g., IFN response, inflammasome activation).- Adaptive immunity to viruses (T cells, B cells, antibodies).- Viral immune evasion strategies.- Virus-induced inflammation and immunopathology.- Animal models for studying viral pathogenesis and immunity.- Novel biomarkers, diagnostic tools, and therapeutic interventions targeting the host immune system. Topic editors: Elisa Fanunza, Nuno Taveira Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/78408/viral-infection-and-host-immunity-mechanisms-and-therapeutic-perspectives