NK cells and virus-related cancers

Crit Rev Oncog. 2014;19(1-2):107-19. doi: 10.1615/critrevoncog.2014010866.

Abstract

Natural killer (NK) cells become activated during viral infections and can play roles in such infections by attacking virus-infected cells or by regulating adaptive immune responses. Experimental models suggest that NK cells may also have the capacity to restrain virus-induced cancers. Here, we discuss the seven viruses linked to human cancers and the evidence of NK cell involvement in these systems.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Disease Models, Animal
  • Humans
  • Killer Cells, Natural / immunology*
  • Mice
  • Neoplasms / virology*