Human Oncogenic Viruses and Cancer

The role of viral infection in cancer was established towards the beginning of 20th century. The study of tumour viruses, their oncogenes and different mechanisms employed by these viruses to subvert the growth-suppressive and pro-apoptotic functions of host tumour suppressor genes has laid the foundation of cancer biology. The human tumour viruses induce malignancies after a prolonged latency and in conjunction with other environmental and host factors. The eight known human tumour viruses contribute to nearly 10-15% of the cancers worldwide. Advancements in research on virus-related cancers offer a plethora of opportunities to fight cancer by preventing viral spread through vaccination and use of antivirals. Besides, recent developments on viral oncogenic mechanisms should allow development of novel and targeted approaches for control and treatment of virus-associated human cancers.