Herpes simplex viruses (HSV) can lead to life-threatening health outcomes unless appropriately managed. These viruses that cause herpes can transmit from one individual to another easily, and no vaccine has been invented yet (Wright & Altman, 2020). Healthcare providers have treated HSV with nucleoside analog drugs successfully for many years (Wright & Altman, 2020). However, it was discovered that these medications would no longer be effective due to rising resistance (Wright & Altman, 2020). Therefore, it is significant to research alternative and innovative methods of curing herpes. HSV has two variations that mainly differ in the location of herpes they cause (Wright & Altman, 2020). HSV-1 is usually responsible for oral herpes, while HSV-2 often affects genitals.
The scope of research for finding alternative methods of treating HSV can be reduced by identifying what drug types cause resistance. Most solutions available today are direct-acting antivirals, which means scientists should focus more on broad-spectrum antiviral substances. Monjo et al. (2018) propose a significantly different approach to curing HSV. Photodynamic Inactivation (PDI) is a relatively new method of killing bacteria. Monjo et al. (2018), in their paper, discuss the application of this technique for the treatment of HSV. The method is based on the creation of reactive oxygen species that inhibit bacterial cells. Without management, these species may cause damage to human DNA and RNA. However, it is possible to create specific reactive oxygen species that affect only given types of cells. By using Orthoquin as a photosensitizer and directly contacting it with the inoculum, Monjo et al. (2018) were able to observe Orthoquin’s antiviral properties. Further research is required to identify possible risks, but the method has the potential to become a primary way of curing HSV.
References
Monjo, A. L. A., Pringle, E. S., Thornbury, M., Duguay, B. A., Monro, S., Hetu, M., Knight, D., Cameron, C., McFarland, S., & McCormick, C. (2018). Photodynamic inactivation of herpes simplex viruses. Viruses, 10(10), 532. Web.
Wright, S. M., & Altman, E. (2020). Inhibition of herpes simplex viruses, types 1 and 2, by ginsenoside 20 (S)-Rg3. Journal of Microbiology and Biotechnology, 30(1), 101-108. Web.