Scientists discover naturally-occurring protein that could lead to a herpes vaccine

Scientists at the Monash Institute of Medical Research announced last week that they had discovered a link between a naturally-occurring protein in the female reproductive tract and protection from sexually transmitted infections (STIs). The protein, dubbed interferon epsilon (IFNe), was found to guard women from contracting STIs including chlamydia and herpes simplex virus, with implications for protection against HIV and human papillomavirus. Additionally, it could have clinical potential in helping determine women’s susceptibility to contracting STIs or other inflammatory diseases. According to team leader Prof. Paul Hertzog, IFNe levels vary during the menstrual cycle, and when a woman becomes pregnant or enters menopause, production of the protein shuts down. When IFNe levels decrease, a woman is more susceptible to contracting an STI. “One way this protein is unusual is because of the way it’s produced,” said Hertzog. “Most proteins protecting us against infection are produced only after we’re exposed to a virus or bacteria...