This Research Topic focuses on human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), which are remnants of ancient retroviral infections that became integrated into the human genome. Accounting for approximately 8% of the human genome, HERVs have been co-evolving with humans and have attracted attention since the Human Genome Project. Many studies have explored their characterization, evolution, and biological function, revealing that HERVs can regulate gene expression and play important roles in various processes such as placental development, immune response, aging, cancer progression, and neurodegenerative diseases. Understanding the characteristics and roles of HERVs can provide insights into their potential use as diagnostic tools and therapeutic targets for diseases. This Research Topic encourages high-quality contributions related to HERVs, including evolutionary biology, regulation and interaction with the host genome, immune defense, virology, and clinical science, as well as other research related to retroviruses. Novel case reports are also welcome.
This Research Topic explores human endogenous retroviruses (HERVs), remnants of ancient retroviral infections in the human genome. HERVs play various roles in human health and disease, including gene regulation and involvement in processes like placental development, immune response, cancer, and neurodegenerative diseases. The goal is to advance our understanding of HERVs through high-quality contributions on their evolution, regulation, immune defense, and clinical implications, as well as other retrovirus-related research. Novel case reports are also encouraged.