Molecular approaches towards characterization, monitoring and targeting of viral-associated hematological malignancies.
Viral-associated malignancies usually arise in the setting of altered immunity or with declines in immune function associated with aging. The main culprits are the lymphotropic herpesvirus, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human herpesvirus-8, which are the focus of this review. Chronic persistent infection and viral reactivation are the main risk factors for development of herpesvirus-associated malignancies and have provided the rationale for intensive monitoring of viral loads in some clinical contexts. Quantitative detection of EBV levels in the post-transplant period and following treatment of EBV-associated malignancies now have a proven role in outcome prediction. Both T-cell immunotherapy and humoral immunotherapies directed against latent viral antigens represent promising interventional approaches to treatment of viral-associated malignancies.
Yin
C Cameron
CC
The University of Texas MD Anderson Cancer Center, Department of Hematopathology, Houston, TX, 77030, USA. cyin@mdanderson.org
Jones
Dan
D
D000818:Animals; D002471:Cell Transformation, Neoplastic; D004266:DNA Virus Infections / Q000235:genetics / Q000378:metabolism* / Q000473:pathology / Q000821:virology*; D004267:DNA Viruses / Q000502:physiology*; D018450:Disease Progression; D019337:Hematologic Neoplasms / Q000378:metabolism / Q000473:pathology / Q000628:therapy* / Q000821:virology*; D006801:Humans