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A viral gene drive could offer a new approach to fighting herpes

The gene drive DNA can copy and paste itself into the genome of other viruses

The herpes simplex virus appears as a bumpy orange and yellow sphere on a navy background. A gene drive could be one new strategy to fight infection.

Herpes simplex virus (microscopy image shown) can cause oral and genital lesions. Scientists hope a viral gene drive could one day wipe out infections.

NIAID

By Meghan Rosen

The words “herpes” and “spread” in the same sentence don’t typically spell good news. Unless, that is, you’re talking about a busybody new virus.

That virus includes designer DNA called a gene drive that spreads from one herpes simplex virus to another.