Herpesvirus genes: molecular basis of viral replication and pathogenicity.

Herpesviruses possess large DNA genomes which contain from approximately 80 to 200 genes. These viral genes are divided into two groups based on whether they are essential or nonessential (dispensable) for virus growth in cell culture: the essential gene products include a set of replication proteins which accomplish the viral DNA replication, while the dispensable gene products include those important in influencing pathogenesis. This article briefly reviews the results of studies relating to the functions and roles of the gene products of human herpesviruses, particularly products associated with the herpes simplex virus.