I call attention to HSV-related gene in Xq28 in humans, which links to
Oct-1 locus on chromosome 1 -- a most interesting gene whose opposite
strand encodes the zeta chain portion of the T cell receptor complex.
Oct-1 occurs as an enhancer in GnRH neurons; GnRH is expressed in human
T-cells, and during and after puberty humans manifest "adult" patterns of
hypothalamic GnRH release, and lymphocytes have GnRH receptors on their
surface membranes.
I'm not sure that this helps answer why HSV infections are worse in
adults, but the aformentioned factors may be relevant..?..
Teresa C. Binstock, Researcher
Developmental & Behavioral Neuroanatomy
Denver CO USA
Teresa.Binstock at uchsc.edu
