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Adeno-associated virus infection and its impact in human health: an overview
Thaís B Sant'Anna1, Natalia M Araujo2
1Laboratory of Molecular Virology, Oswaldo Cruz Institute, FIOCRUZ, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
Abstract:
Discovered as a contaminant of adenovirus stocks in the 1960s, adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a mono-stranded DNA virus that depends on helper factors to replicate. Even though AAV is endemic in the human population (35-80%), it is remarkable that many issues concerning the natural infection by this virus remain unanswered. In this study, we reflect on the main basic aspects of AAV biology and provide an overview of the studies exploring the impact of AAV infection on human health, focusing on three major research areas including, (i) cervical and (ii) liver cancer, and (iii) reproductive system disorders. Conflicting results have been obtained into the association of AAV infection with the occurrence of adverse reproductive outcomes, such as placental complications, spontaneous abortion, and fertility disorders, or with a protective role in HPV-related cervical carcinogenesis. Noteworthy, recent reports have identified AAV insertional mutagenesis as a novel risk factor for the development of hepatocellular carcinoma. This latest finding raises concern regarding the widespread usage of AAV vectors in liver-targeted gene therapy.
Insights
Adeno-associated virus (AAV) infection
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Oncology
- Reproductive Health
Background:
- Adeno-associated virus (AAV) is a common human virus with unknown natural infection impacts.
- AAV biology and its role in human health require further investigation.
- Existing research presents conflicting findings on AAV's health effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review basic AAV biology.
- To explore AAV's impact on cervical cancer, liver cancer, and reproductive disorders.
- To highlight recent findings on AAV insertional mutagenesis and gene therapy concerns.
Main Methods:
- Literature review and synthesis of existing studies.
- Focus on AAV's association with HPV-related cervical carcinogenesis.
- Analysis of AAV's role in reproductive health outcomes.
- Examination of AAV's link to hepatocellular carcinoma development.
Main Results:
- Conflicting evidence exists regarding AAV's role in adverse reproductive outcomes.
- AAV may have a protective effect against HPV-related cervical cancer.
- AAV insertional mutagenesis is a newly identified risk factor for liver cancer.
Conclusions:
- AAV's precise role in human health remains complex and requires further research.
- Recent findings on AAV insertional mutagenesis raise safety concerns for liver-targeted gene therapy.
- Continued investigation into AAV biology and pathogenesis is crucial.
