Journal of Research in Microbiology and Immunology ISSN: 3108-0952 (Online)

Authors: Dr. Arjun Mehta, Dr. Sneha Kapoor

ABSTRACT: Zoonotic viral infections pose significant public health threats globally due to their potential to cause epidemics and pandemics. Understanding the pathogenic mechanisms and host immune responses is crucial for developing effective preventive and therapeutic strategies. This review explores the molecular determinants of viral pathogenicity, the innate and adaptive immune mechanisms elicited upon infection, and the factors influencing host susceptibility and disease severity. Emphasis is placed on emerging zoonotic viruses such as Ebola virus, Nipah virus, and coronaviruses, highlighting the role of viral proteins in immune evasion, cytokine dysregulation, and induction of immunopathology. Furthermore, the paper discusses the clinical implications of immune responses, vaccine development, and novel immunotherapeutic approaches, underlining the need for integrated strategies in managing zoonotic viral threats.

KEYWORDS: Zoonotic viruses, pathogenicity, immune response, viral evasion, host-pathogen interaction, emerging infections, immunopathology.