TWiV 1193: HPV or not to B

This episode explores the multifaceted world of virology, focusing on recent outbreaks and scientific advancements. Against the backdrop of concerns about scientific censorship and the withdrawal of some countries from the WHO, the hosts discuss several key issues. More significantly, the panel delves into a PLOS study detailing the viral and immune dynamics of HPV infections in young women, revealing a previously unknown 16-month plateau phase before infection clearance. For instance, the discussion highlights the challenges in studying asymptomatic infections and the implications for screening policies and immunotherapies. As the discussion pivoted to Epstein-Barr virus, a PNAS paper is summarized, detailing how the viral protein BALF-01 subverts cellular pathways to degrade B-cell receptor complexes, potentially offering new therapeutic strategies against certain lymphomas. The hosts also address listener questions concerning the lack of widespread chicken vaccination against avian influenza, the impact of anti-vaccine sentiment on HPV vaccination rates, and the importance of global health organizations like the WHO. In conclusion, the episode underscores the ongoing challenges in virology research, the importance of vaccination, and the complex interplay between scientific advancements, public health policy, and societal attitudes.