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Merkel Cell Polyomavirus Infection and Detection
Published on: February 7, 2019
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Merkel Cell Polyomavirus and Merkel Cell Carcinoma
Valeria Pietropaolo1, Carla Prezioso1,2, Ugo Moens3
1Department of Public Health and Infectious Diseases, "Sapienza" University, 00185 Rome, Italy.
Cancers
|July 9, 2020
Summary
Merkel cell polyomavirus is linked to 80% of Merkel cell carcinomas, a rare skin cancer. This review updates knowledge on the virus, its cancer-causing properties, and potential prevention and treatment strategies.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Virology
- Dermatology
Background:
- Viruses cause approximately 15% of human cancers.
- Merkel cell polyomavirus (MCPyV) is a recently identified human tumor virus.
- MCPyV is associated with 80% of Merkel cell carcinomas (MCC), an aggressive skin cancer.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide an updated review of MCPyV.
- To discuss the virus's structure, life cycle, tropism, epidemiology, and oncogenic properties.
- To explore potential strategies for preventing viral infection and treating MCPyV-positive MCC.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of scientific publications on MCPyV and MCC.
- Synthesis of current knowledge on viral characteristics and oncogenesis.
- Discussion of therapeutic and preventative approaches.
Main Results:
- MCPyV is a DNA virus strongly associated with MCC.
- The exact cells of origin for MCC remain under investigation.
- Several potential avenues for intervention exist, including antiviral therapies and vaccines.
Conclusions:
- MCPyV plays a significant role in the pathogenesis of MCC.
- Further research is needed to fully elucidate viral oncogenesis and optimize treatment strategies.
- Targeting MCPyV offers a promising approach for managing this rare cancer.
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