Science Weekly cover image

Science Weekly

The virus that infects almost everyone, and its link to cancer and MS

Mar 28, 2024
15:35
Snipd AI
Lawrence Young, Professor of molecular oncology, discusses the 60th anniversary of Epstein-Barr virus discovery linking it to cancer and MS. They explore the virus's role in 1% of cancers, its connection to MS, and challenges in vaccine development.
Read more

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • The Epstein-Barr Virus is the first virus linked to cancer in humans, leading to breakthroughs like the HPV vaccine for cancer prevention.
  • EBV plays a crucial role in the onset and progression of multiple sclerosis (MS), sparking research on potential treatments and preventive measures.

Deep dives

Discovery of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and its Impact on Cancer

The Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) was discovered 60 years ago and is known to be the most common infection in humans, residing quietly in the body after infection. While many remain asymptomatic, those infected during adolescence may experience conditions like glandular fever. EBV's significance lies in its association with cancer, being the first virus linked to cancer in humans. This discovery has paved the way for understanding how viruses contribute to cancer development, leading to breakthroughs like the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer prevention.

Get the Snipd
podcast app

Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
App store bannerPlay store banner

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode

Save any
moment

Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways

Share
& Export

Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more

AI-powered
podcast player

Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features

Discover
highlights

Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode