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Updated: May 23, 2025

Genome-wide RNAi Screening to Identify Host Factors That Modulate Oncolytic Virus Therapy
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Decoding the molecular complexity of viruses in human cancer: insights into host cell infection, oncogenesis, and

Chinmay Das1, Chanakya Nath Kundu1

  • 1Cancer Biology Division, School of Biotechnology, Kalinga Institute of Industrial Technology (KIIT), Deemed to be University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, India.

Critical Reviews in Microbiology
|March 7, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Viruses cause about 15% of human cancers globally. This review details how oncogenic viruses initiate cancer and explores current and future preventive and treatment strategies, including precision medicine and immunotherapy.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • Infections contribute to approximately 15% of human cancers worldwide.
  • Viruses are key infectious agents that can transform human cells, leading to cancer development.
  • Several viruses, including Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and human papillomavirus (HPV), are established oncogenic agents.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the molecular mechanisms by which viruses cause cancer.
  • To discuss the role of viral oncogenic proteins in cellular transformation and oncogenesis.
  • To outline current and future therapeutic strategies for virus-associated cancers.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of scientific studies on viral oncogenesis.
  • Analysis of molecular pathways involved in viral infection and cancer development.
  • Synthesis of information on preventive measures and treatment modalities.

Main Results:

  • Identified major oncogenic viruses and their roles in cancer initiation and progression.
  • Highlighted the function of viral oncogenic proteins in cellular transformation.
  • Summarized existing preventive strategies and treatments for viral infections and associated cancers.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding viral oncogenesis is crucial for developing effective cancer therapies.
  • Future research should focus on precision medicine, gene therapies, vaccines, and immunotherapy for virus-induced cancers.
  • Comprehensive strategies are needed to combat the global burden of virus-associated cancers.
Keywords:
COVID-19Oncoviruseshuman cancerinfectionsoncogenesis

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