Viral-encoded cyclins

Related Experiment Video

Updated: Oct 17, 2026

Identification of Cyclin-dependent Kinase 1 Specific Phosphorylation Sites by an In Vitro Kinase Assay
12:26

Identification of Cyclin-dependent Kinase 1 Specific Phosphorylation Sites by an In Vitro Kinase Assay

Published on: May 3, 2018

H Laman1, D J Mann, N C Jones

  • 1Molecular Oncology Laboratory, Imperial Cancer Research Fund, London, WC2A 3PX, UK.

Current Opinion in Genetics & Development
|February 19, 2000
PubMed

Insights

Viral D-type cyclins, found in cancer-associated herpesviruses, mimic G(1) cyclins but deregulate the cell cycle. Their novel features and role in tumorigenesis are key areas of ongoing research.

Area of Science:

  • Molecular biology
  • Virology
  • Oncology

Background:

  • Herpesviruses linked to cancer contain D-type cyclin homologs.
  • These viral proteins share similarities with host G(1) cyclins.
  • Viral cyclins possess unique properties enabling cell cycle deregulation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review advances in understanding viral cyclin molecular mechanisms.
  • To explore the role of viral cyclins in cancer development (tumorigenesis).

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of molecular studies on viral cyclins.
  • Analysis of genomic data for herpesvirus-associated cyclins.

Main Results:

  • Viral D-type cyclins exploit host G(1) cyclin functions.
  • These viral proteins extend their capabilities beyond normal cell cycle regulation.
  • Evidence suggests a role for viral cyclins in promoting tumor formation.

Conclusions:

  • Viral cyclins represent a novel mechanism for cell cycle manipulation by herpesviruses.
  • Understanding these viral proteins is crucial for cancer research and potential therapeutic strategies.

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