In this deep-dive episode of Journal Review, host Jeremiah Ridderbos unpacks the intricate world of cytomegalovirus (CMV)—a virus as ancient as it is elusive. From its historical misidentification to its role in latent infection, immune evasion, and even glioblastoma pathogenesis, Jeremiah connects the dots between molecular mechanisms and real-world implications. Learn how CMV shapes public health, challenges transplant medicine, and sparks innovation in vaccine development—especially as a promising vector for HIV and influenza. Thought-provoking, evidence-rich, and accessible to curious minds in medicine and beyond