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Updated: May 15, 2025

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Viral oncogenesis in cancer: from mechanisms to therapeutics

Qing Xiao1, Yi Liu1, Tingting Li1

  • 1Chongqing Key Laboratory of Translational Research for Cancer Metastasis and Individualized Treatment, Department of Hematology-Oncology, Chongqing University Cancer Hospital, Chongqing, China.

Signal Transduction and Targeted Therapy
|May 11, 2025
PubMed

Insights

Six decades after Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) discovery, seven oncogenic viruses cause significant global cancer burdens. Understanding viral oncogenesis mechanisms is key for developing new cancer treatments and prevention strategies.

Area of Science:

  • Oncology
  • Virology
  • Molecular Biology

Background:

  • The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), discovered 60 years ago, was the first virus linked to human cancer.
  • Seven Group 1 oncogenic viruses, including HBV, HPV, EBV, KSHV, HCV, HTLV-1, and HIV, contribute to the global cancer burden.
  • These viruses are implicated in various cancers such as hepatocellular carcinoma, gastric cancer, cervical cancer, and lymphomas.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To review the global epidemiology of virus-related tumors.
  • To outline research milestones and viral infection processes.
  • To elucidate the molecular mechanisms of viral oncogenesis and discuss therapeutic strategies.

Main Methods:

  • Literature review of epidemiological data.
  • Analysis of research milestones in viral oncology.
  • Examination of molecular mechanisms of viral carcinogenesis.
  • Review of current and emerging therapeutic strategies for virus-related cancers.

Main Results:

  • Oncogenic viruses induce cancer by altering host cell processes, especially under immunosuppression.
  • Mechanisms include oncogene/tumor suppressor gene regulation, genomic instability, cell cycle disruption, immune suppression, chronic inflammation, and angiogenesis.
  • Significant progress has been made in understanding viral oncogenesis and developing treatments.

Conclusions:

  • Understanding viral oncogenesis provides critical insights into cancer development.
  • Targeting viral mechanisms offers potential for novel cancer prevention and treatment strategies.
  • Continued research is vital for advancing therapies against virus-associated malignancies.

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