Description:
<jats:p>The role of semen in sexual transmission of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) is currently unclear. This is surprising, as HCMV is frequently detected in this body fluid and infection is of high danger for neonates and pregnant women. In this study, we found that seminal plasma (SP) dose dependently inhibited HCMV infection. The infection inhibition was specific for HCMV, as other viruses, such as human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) and herpes simplex virus 2 (HSV-2), were not inhibited by SP. SP must contain a soluble, heat-resistant factor that limits attachment of HCMV particles to cells, probably by interaction with the trimeric glycoprotein complex gH/gL/gO. This novel virus-host interaction could possibly limit transmission of HCMV via semen during sexual intercourse.</jats:p>