Herpes simplex virus (HSV) infections are one of the most severe viral infections acquired by neonates. Transmission predominantly occurs during childbirth through barrier tissues, such as the skin, mouth and eyes. Approximately 50% of infected neonates develop disseminated disease, which may include swelling of the brain. Without treatment, mortality is high and surviving infants are often left with severe cognitive dysfunction. This contrasts HSV infections in adults, which are often asymptomatic. It has been proposed that the inability of the neonate immune system to mount a functional antiviral response may contribute to the increased susceptibility of neonates to HSV infection. However, despite the fact the neonates are more susceptible than adults to severe HSV infection, studies have demonstrated that not all neonates exposed to HSV during childbirth become infected with the virus. Why some neonates are protected from HSV transmission while others are susceptible remains unclear.

In this proposal, we aim to investigate antiviral responses that protect against HSV infection in neonates. We are particularly interested in antiviral responses active in neonatal skin, which is a primary site of HSV transmission during childbirth.