Exploring the pivotal 60th anniversary of the discovery of the Epstein-Barr virus, uncovering its potential to lead to various cancers and chronic conditions. Delving into the intricate relationship between EBV, ethnicity, diet, and immune responses in tumor development.
On 28 March it’s the 60th anniversary of the discovery of Epstein-Barr virus, the most common viral infection in humans. The virus was first discovered in association with a rare type of cancer located in Africa, but is now understood to be implicated in 1% of cancers, as well as the autoimmune disease multiple sclerosis, among others. Ian Sample meets Lawrence Young, professor of molecular oncology at Warwick Medical School, to hear the story of this virus, and how understanding it might help us prevent and treat cancer and other illnesses.. Help support our independent journalism at
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