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Interplay between viruses and bacterial microbiota in cancer development
Dariia Vyshenska1, Khiem C Lam1, Natalia Shulzhenko2
1College of Pharmacy, Oregon State University, 1601 SW Jefferson Way, Corvallis, OR 97331, USA.
Seminars in Immunology
|June 13, 2017
Summary
Most people infected with cancer-causing viruses (oncoviruses) do not develop tumors. The microbiome, or gut bacteria, may influence whether a viral infection leads to cancer, an area of active research.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Microbiome Research
Background:
- Viruses are known causes of cancer (oncoviruses).
- Most individuals infected with oncoviruses do not develop cancer.
- Factors determining cancer development post-infection are under investigation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the role of the microbiome in oncogenic viral infections.
- To present a model for microbiome contribution to viral-associated cancers.
- To discuss challenges and solutions in this research area.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of studies on viruses, cancer, and the microbiome.
- Analysis of existing models of carcinogenesis.
- Identification of key genetic and environmental factors.
Main Results:
- The microbiome can influence the balance between viral clearance and cancer development.
- Examples of microbiome impact on human viral-associated tumors are provided.
- Challenges include complex interactions and lack of standardized methodologies.
Conclusions:
- The microbiome is a critical factor in viral carcinogenesis.
- Understanding these interactions is key to developing new cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
- Further research is needed to overcome current challenges.
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