Genetic determination of latency

Genetic determination of latency refers to how an individual's genetic makeup influences how and when a virus becomes latent—dormant within the body after initial infection. Certain genes can make some people more prone to harboring the virus silently for extended periods, as their immune system reacts differently. This genetic influence can affect the virus's ability to hide or reactivate, impacting disease progression and treatment responses. In essence, our genes can partly shape how our bodies control or contain the virus in a latent state.