Human herpesviruses (HHVs) establish lifelong latency in host cells—a hallmark that complicates effective treatment and eradication. While most approved antivirals target lytic replication, the latent reservoir remains largely unchallenged, leading to reactivation risks, persistent infections, and disease relapse, particularly in immunocompromised individuals.
At CD BioSciences, we recognize the urgent need to address this therapeutic blind spot. Our Solutions for Targeting Latency are specifically designed to empower drug developers with the tools, models, and expertise required to identify, validate, and modulate latency-associated pathways and targets across the HHV family, with a special focus on gamma-herpesviruses such as Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV).
Our Expertise: Tailored Latency-Targeting Capabilities
CD BioSciences integrates domain expertise in herpesvirus biology with cutting-edge experimental platforms to support latency-centric antiviral drug discovery. Our solutions span five major areas:
Latency Model Establishment and Optimization
We provide robust in vitro and in vivo latency models to simulate physiologically relevant latent infections, including:
- Primary Neuron-Based Latency Models
- HSV latency in dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons
- Reactivation via stressor-based or pharmacological stimuli
- B Cell and Endothelial Models for EBV and KSHV
- KSHV latency in iSLK and BCBL-1 cells
- EBV latency types I, II, III in LCLs and Akata cells
- Animal Models of Latency
- Murine gammaherpesvirus 68 (MHV-68) models for latency/reactivation studies
- Humanized mouse models for EBV/KSHV persistence and immune evasion
These models allow functional evaluation of candidate molecules and genetic perturbation strategies within the context of latent infection.
Latency-Associated Target Identification & Functional Validation
We help our clients dissect latency maintenance mechanisms and discover actionable molecular targets using:
- CRISPR-Cas9 and RNAi Knockdown Screens
- Transcriptomic and Proteomic Profiling of latently infected vs. reactivated cells
- Latency-associated protein interaction mapping (e.g., KSHV LANA, EBV EBNA1, or HSV LAT)
- ChIP-seq and epigenetic profiling to evaluate chromatin states and host factor involvement
These techniques are integrated with proprietary bioinformatics pipelines to rank high-value targets for latency disruption.
Latency-Reversing Agents (LRA) & Latency-Silencing Agents (LSA) Screening
We support dual strategic approaches:
- Latency Reversal ("Shock and Kill")
Identify LRAs that induce viral gene expression from latency, enabling immune clearance or antiviral action.- Histone deacetylase inhibitors (HDACi)
- Bromodomain inhibitors (BETi)
- PKC agonists and NF-κB modulators
- Latency Silencing ("Block and Lock")
Discover LSAs that reinforce latency, preventing viral reactivation.- Epigenetic modulators
- Small molecules targeting latency maintenance factors (e.g., LANA, EBNA1)
Our high-throughput screening platforms are configured with latency-specific readouts (e.g., LANA promoter activity, reactivation marker expression, viral genome copy number).
Mechanistic Evaluation and Downstream Assays
For confirmed leads, we offer in-depth characterization through:
- qPCR and digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) for latent viral genome quantification
- RNA-seq and ATAC-seq for transcriptome and chromatin accessibility changes
- Immunoblotting, IHC, and immunofluorescence to track viral/host protein dynamics
- Cytotoxicity and off-target profiling in matched cell types
- Live-cell imaging of reactivation kinetics
These assays ensure mechanistic clarity, potency assessment, and early safety profiling of latency-targeting molecules.
Preclinical Latency Disruption Evaluation
We offer customized proof-of-concept packages to support preclinical candidate selection:
- In vivo latency modulation studies in MHV-68 or humanized models
- Combination assessments with immune checkpoint inhibitors, antivirals, or epigenetic drugs
- Biodistribution and persistence profiling in latency reservoirs
- Viral reactivation frequency analysis via qPCR or viral titer measurements
This comprehensive workflow streamlines decision-making for progression into IND-enabling studies.
Why CD BioSciences?
Unmatched Focus on Herpesvirus Latency
Unlike generalist CROs, we specialize in HHV biology, providing unparalleled depth in latency-associated mechanisms and therapeutic strategies.
End-to-End Latency Discovery Support
From target ID to in vivo validation, we cover the entire early discovery continuum for latency-modulating interventions.
Access to Rare Models and Tools
We maintain validated and optimized latency models unavailable in conventional repositories, giving our clients a competitive edge.
Collaborative Approach
Our scientific team co-designs studies with clients, ensuring alignment with therapeutic hypotheses and program goals.
Commitment to Quality and Scientific Rigor
All solutions follow GLP-like standards and are backed by peer-reviewed protocols, publication-grade datasets, and expert interpretation.
Applications and Indications
Our latency-targeting solutions are applicable to:
- Gamma-HHV-associated cancers
- KSHV: Primary effusion lymphoma (PEL), Kaposi's sarcoma
- EBV: Hodgkin lymphoma, nasopharyngeal carcinoma, post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease
- Latent HSV reactivation disorders
- Herpes simplex encephalitis
- HSV reactivation in immunosuppressed patients
- Latent CMV and HHV-6/7 complications in transplant settings
- Therapeutic vaccine development where latency modulation can enhance antigen exposure
Partner With Us
CD BioSciences is the ideal partner for advancing HHV drug discovery beyond the lytic cycle. Whether you're aiming to develop LRAs, LSAs, or latency-targeted immunotherapies, our platform, expertise, and collaborative spirit will accelerate your program with scientific integrity and translational relevance.
Contact us today to discuss your latency-targeting discovery goals or to request a customized proposal.
References
- Damania, B. & Münz, C. (2019). Latency and reactivation of oncogenic human herpesviruses. Nature Reviews Microbiology, 17(11), 723–735.
- Wang, F. et al. (2022). Targeting Epstein–Barr virus latent infection. Nature Reviews Drug Discovery, 21(4), 261–282.
- McAllister, S. C. (2021). Reactivation and latency of herpesviruses: New developments. Current Opinion in Virology, 51, 113–122.
- Kaltwasser, S. F., et al. (2020). Targeting viral latency: Lessons from HIV and herpesviruses. Trends in Microbiology, 28(3), 204–218.
- Jones, C. (2018). Herpes simplex virus latency: The DNA repair-centric model. Virology, 522, 71–83.