Mathematical modeling of the effect of immunosuppressive therapy on within-host Ebola virus disease dynamics

Abstract

Immunosuppressive therapy, a keystone of many treatments, can weaken the immune system, potentially worsening viral infections such as Ebolavirus disease (EVD). This study used mathematical modeling and simulations to explore the impact of immunosuppression on within-host EVD. The model integrates viral replication, the patient's immune response and the effect of immunosuppressive therapy. Simulations explored how varying degrees of immunosuppression influence the progression of EVD. Critically, the model predicted a direct correlation: increased immunosuppression triggered a noticeable rise in viral replication and a corresponding weakening of the immune response. This in silico approach provides valuable understandings of the complex interaction between EVD, the immune system and immunosuppressive therapy. The findings stress the potential risks associated with immunosuppression during EVD and emphasize the importance of considering these factors when making critical treatment decisions for EVD patients requiring such therapy.