In summary, this study suggests that a distinctive network topology is still present in all vertebrate herpesvirus species although herpesviruses co-evolved with their hosts for millions of years. Moreover, it provides evidence (i) that interactions and hence functions of proteins may be more conserved than their sequence and (ii) that a common core of protein interactions is conserved in all herpesviruses. We hope that the data presented will inspire future herpesvirus research and facilitate the selection of potential targets for antiviral therapy [54] .