Science Weekly
The virus that infects almost everyone, and its link to cancer and MS
Mar 28, 2024
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.
15:35
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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.
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