One object of certain embodiments of the present invention is therapeutic agents and compositions to treat conditions associated with activation of yHV. In certain embodiments, the therapeutic agent is a synthetic peptide that preferentially binds to a viral Bcl-2 homolog over a cellular Bcl-2 homolog. In certain embodiments, the therapeutic agent is provided within a therapeutic composition including a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier or excipient for administering the synthetic peptide. The synthetic peptide may be administered by any suitable mode of administration, including, but not limited to, enteral or parenteral administration. In certain embodiments, the synthetic peptide may be comprised within a delivery vehicle.
