Using a split luciferase assay (SLA) to measure the kinetics of cell–cell fusion mediated by herpes simplex virus glycoproteins

•The SLA has been adapted from HIV to measure fusion by HSV glycoproteins.•Using this assay, time of initiation and kinetics of fusion can be determined.•Short and long time courses provide additional information about HSV glycoproteins.•Fusion can be triggered with soluble gD and inhibited by neutralizing antibodies.