JBC_cover-illustration_HCMV UL141 story_only image_EN

This artwork portrays human cytomegalovirus (as a green knight) wielding its immune-modulating glycoprotein UL141 (blue DNA sword) to subvert host cell defense mechanisms. A small glycomimetic antagonist (in orange) blocks UL141’s action, causing the virus to lose critical functions and diminishing its fitness. The visual metaphor underscores the molecular basis for therapeutic targeting of viral immune evasion.

This artwork portrays human cytomegalovirus (as a green knight) wielding its immune-modulating glycoprotein UL141 (blue DNA sword) to subvert host cell defense mechanisms. A small glycomimetic antagonist (in orange) blocks UL141’s action, causing the virus to lose critical functions and diminishing its fitness. The visual metaphor underscores the molecular basis for therapeutic targeting of viral immune evasion.