Viruses are extremely microscopic organisms. Most cannot be seen under a standard microscope. They are composed of a small number of genes in the form of DNA or RNA encased in a protein covering. To multiply and produce additional viruses, a virus must enter a living cell and seize control of the cell’s machinery. Some viruses achieve this by introducing their own DNA (or RNA) into that of the host cell. When the DNA or RNA influences the host cell’s genes, it can cause the cell to become cancerous.
Several viruses have been associated with human cancers. Our expanding understanding of viruses’ function in cancer has resulted in the creation of vaccinations to help prevent specific human tumors. However, these vaccines can only protect against infections if given before the person is exposed to the cancer-causing virus.
What are these viruses?
1. Human Papillomavirus (HPVs):
Human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are a family of more than 150 viruses. They’re named papillomaviruses because some of them cause papillomas, sometimes known as warts. Some forms of HPV only develop on skin, whereas others grow in mucous membranes such as the mouth, throat, or vagina. All kinds of HPV are spread by contact (touch). Sexual contact can spread more than 40 different kinds of HPV. At least a dozen of these HPV strains are linked to cancer. HPV infections are common, while HPV-related cancer is rare. Most HPV-infected people do not get cancer as a result of the virus. However, certain persons who have had long-term infections with high-risk HPV strains are at risk for getting cancer. A few kinds of HPV are the primary causes of cervical cancer, the second most frequent malignancy in women globally. HPV is also responsible for certain malignancies of the penis, anus, vagina, vulva, and mouth and throat. Smoking, which has been linked to some of these malignancies, may combine with HPV to raise cancer risk. Other genital infections may potentially raise the risk of HPV-related malignancy.
2. Epstein – Barr Virus (EBV):
EBV is a herpesvirus. It is most recognized for producing infectious mononucleosis, also known as “mono”. EBV can be transmitted from person to person via coughing, sneezing, sharing drinks or eating utensils. The majority of persons in the United States are infected with EBV by the end of their teen years, albeit not everyone gets mono symptoms. EBV infection, like other herpes virus infections, lasts a lifetime, even if most people show no symptoms after the first few weeks. EBV infects and persists in the body’s B lymphocytes (also known as B cells). There are no medicines or other therapies for EBV, nor are there vaccines to help prevent it, however most people do not develop major symptoms from EBV infection.
3. Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCV):
Merkel Cell Polyomavirus (MCV) was found in 2008 in samples from Merkel cell carcinoma, a rare and aggressive form of skin cancer. Most people become infected with MCV at some point in their lives (typically during childhood), and the infection normally causes no symptoms. However, in a few people with this infection, the virus can alter the DNA inside cells, resulting in Merkel cell cancer. This infection is thought to be responsible for nearly all Merkel cell malignancies. It is unclear how humans become infected with this virus, although it has been detected in several locations throughout the body, including normal skin and saliva.
Though some viruses can hijack human cells and potentially cause cancer, knowing this link has resulted in the creation of preventive vaccinations for specific diseases such as HPV-induced cervical carcinoma. While current research focuses on viruses such as EBV and MCV, this understanding allows us to take control of our health through vaccination and early detection measures.
