Beyond oncogenesis: the unexplored benefits of viruses in cancer immunity - PubMed
4 hours ago
- #cancer immunity
- #virome
- #virology
- Viruses are traditionally studied for causing cancer (oncogenesis), but new evidence shows some viruses may enhance anti-tumor immunity.
- The human virome, including bacteriophages, eukaryotic viruses, and endogenous retroviruses, can shape immune development and boost cancer surveillance.
- Non-oncogenic viruses can prime immune responses, mimic tumor antigens, and modulate immune checkpoints, potentially protecting against cancer.
- Endogenous retroviruses, oncolytic viruses, and microbiome-associated phages may act as allies in controlling cancer.
- This review suggests a virome-guided framework for cancer prevention, including new risk assessment and therapeutic approaches, especially in low-resource settings.