Invitrogen™ Cytomegalovirus UL146 Polyclonal Antibody

Cytomegalovirus (CMV) UL146 is a gene encoded by human cytomegalovirus (HCMV), a member of the herpesvirus family that can cause significant disease in immunocompromised individuals and newborns. The UL146 gene is part of a cluster of genes that encode for viral chemokine-like proteins. UL146 specifically encodes a CXC chemokine, vCXCL1, which mimics human chemokines and can bind to chemokine receptors on host cells. This viral chemokine plays a crucial role in modulating the host immune response by attracting neutrophils to the site of infection. By doing so, UL146 can alter the local immune environment, potentially aiding the virus in evading immune detection and promoting viral dissemination. The activity of UL146 is significant in the context of HCMV pathogenesis, as it can contribute to the chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation associated with HCMV infections. Understanding the function and mechanisms of UL146 is essential for developing targeted antiviral therapies and improving strategies to manage HCMV-related diseases. Research into UL146 also provides broader insights into viral immune evasion tactics and the complex interactions between viruses and the host immune system.