What Is a CMV Promoter?

Cytomegalovirus, or CMV, is a term for different strains of herpes viruses. CMV causes epithelial cells covering cavities or surfaces in the body to enlarge. CMV can cause birth defects and critical problems in a host with impaired immunity.

Promoters

• In medical terms, a promoter is anything that quickens a catalyst's effect. In the case of herpes outbreaks, a catalyst can be stress, insomnia, a weakened immune system or a variety of other factors. A promoter takes these factors and speeds the problematic conditions that surface during a viral outbreak.

Uses of Promoters

• Promoters are often used in animal studies to cause an outbreak of CMV in mammals, such as mice and monkeys. This allows scientists to study the condition and attempt to formulate vaccinations and other medical advantages to address and treat this virus.

Significance

• The birthing process is particularly conducive to spreading CMV. As a child passes through the birth canal, he can easily have the virus spread from the mother's tissue to the infant's eyes, nose, mouth or other orifices. Those suffering from the AIDS virus are particularly susceptible to complications from CMV and the virus' promoters.