[Advances on zeta protein encoded by Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) BZLF1 gene]

Zeta protein was encoded by BZLF1 gene which is one of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) immediate early (IE) genes. The protein is a member of activator protein 1 (AP-1) super family that can bind to cellular AP-1 response element. Zeta protein is associated with lots of human diseases, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). So detection of Zeta protein or its antibody can be used in disease diagnosis and prognosis assessment. Zeta protein can repress human immune system, interfere with cellular signal transduction, affect cell cycle progress, and induce cell apoptosis. At the same time, its expression can be affected by some cellular components. Here we review the new advances on BZLF1 gene structure, expression and relationship to cells, together with association with EBV associated diseases.