Herpes simplex virus type 2 entry into cultured human corneal fibroblasts is mediated by herpesvirus entry mediator.

Herpes simplex virus type 2 (HSV-2) infections in the eye are becoming increasingly common in adults. The most likely point of entry for HSV-2 into the eye is through the cornea. By using primary cultures of human corneal fibroblasts (CFs), a natural target-cell type for infection, it was demonstrated that CFs are highly susceptible to HSV-2 entry and replication. RT-PCR and flow-cytometry analyses demonstrated expression of herpesvirus entry mediator (HVEM), a known mediator for HSV-2 entry into cells. Blocking of virus entry into CFs by anti-HVEM antibody implicated HVEM as a potential receptor for HSV-2 infection. These results indicate that HVEM may play a crucial role in HSV-2-induced corneal infections.