White blood cells control cancer-causing virus
A new study conducted by Trudeau Institute immunologists has revealed the ways through which human body controls viruses believed to cause different cancers.
Researchers found out the way through which white blood cells control gamma-herpesviruses, the viruses responsible for a variety of cancers.
One of the many factors that affect development of cancer is infection with cancer-causing viruses, among them gamma-herpesviruses like the Epstein Barr virus and Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus.
Researchers believe that more than 95 percent of the human population is infected with one or both of these viruses, but infection cycles and immune responses affect the development of the disease.
Gamma-herpesvirus infections are characterized by two distinct phases. In the first phase known as the active phase, the immune system responds by attacking the virus.
The chance of developing cancer will increase if the immune system is weakened, such as with immunosuppression following transplantation or as a consequence of other diseases, such as AIDS.
The study also provided researchers with implications for the treatment and prevention of certain cancers.
Source: presstv.com
