2023-05-11 09:00:00
This is why the Epstein-Barr virus can promote cancer
Researchers at the University of California in San Diego have in one Study demonstrated why EBV can promote the development of a tumor. The investigations examined where the protein of the virus accumulates in the DNA.
The result: The EBV emerges at so-called “fragile sites” of human chromosome 11 on. Due to mutations during cell division, these areas are particularly sensitive and can be damaged. The scientists also found out that during cell division, copies of a sequence appeared that were similar to EBV and enabled docking to the cell – this process causes the chromosome to break at the fragile point: the damage to the genome is responsible for the degenerated cell and thus responsible for the development of cancer.
In the further course of the study, it was investigated whether this damage to fragile sites on chromosome 11 can also be detected in DNA sequences from cancer tumors. Data from 2,439 tumor types and 38 types of cancer were analyzed for these studies. The researchers at the University of California found that people who had the virus also did significantly more frequent degenerations on chromosome 11 exhibited. It was primarily about throat cancer: 100 percent of the tumors of EBV-positive patients showed changes on chromosome 11.
According to the scientists, an existing EBV infection that has not yet broken out increases the risk of developing cancer.
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Cancer screening saves lives
It doesn’t matter whether it’s breast cancer, lung cancer or blood cancer: Regular check-ups are the be-all and end-all in the fight against cancer – and in case of doubt can save lives. Our infographic explains which examinations are important when and what is covered by statutory health insurance.
Source: Federal Ministry of Health
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