Birch pollen extract enhances human cytomegalovirus replication in monocyte-derived dendritic cells

Key message

We show that birch pollen extract enhances pro-inflammatory responses in monocyte-derived dendritic cells and increases cell susceptibility to human cytomegalovirus replication. 

Translational perspective

Our research provides a functional link between studies correlating the incidence of viral infections with the birch pollen season, which is of clinical relevance especially for individuals sensitive to the effects of pollen.

Original publication

Fneish Z, Becker J, Mulenge F, Costa B, Krajewski L, Duran V, Ziegler A, Sommer V, Traidl-Hoffmann C, Gilles S, Kalinke U. Birch pollen extract enhances human cytomegalovirus replication in monocyte-derived dendritic cells. Allergy. 2022 Aug 29.

DOI: 10.1111/all.15497