Virus-associated neuroendocrine cancers: Pathogenesis and current therapeutics

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Virology
• Pathophysiology

Background:

• Neuroendocrine neoplasms (NENs) are increasingly prevalent malignancies with poor prognoses.
• The association between tumor viruses and NEN development/progression is recognized but not fully understood.
• Current understanding of NEN pathophysiology and its viral connections requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore the intricate relationship between tumor viruses and neuroendocrine neoplasm pathophysiology.
• To review the current understanding of viral involvement in NEN development and progression.
• To discuss the potential of virus-based therapies, such as oncolytic virotherapy, for NEN treatment.

Main Methods:

• Comprehensive literature review of studies investigating tumor viruses and NENs.
• Analysis of experimental data on viral screening in neuroendocrine tumors (NETs).
• Evaluation of current research on NEN pathogenesis, molecular mechanisms, and therapeutic strategies.

Main Results:

• Several tumor viruses, including polyomavirus, HPV, KSHV, and EBV, are implicated in NENs.
• Metastatic NENs exhibit poor prognoses, highlighting the need for effective treatments.
• Oncolytic vectors have shown promise in clinical studies, suggesting potential for virus-based immunotherapy.

Conclusions:

• Tumor viruses play a complex, dual role in NEN pathophysiology.
• Further research into the NEN-virus interplay is crucial for developing early detection and targeted therapies.
• Oncolytic virotherapy and virus-based immunotherapy represent promising future therapeutic avenues for NENs.