EBV+ lymphoproliferative diseases: opportunities for leveraging EBV as a therapeutic target

Blood. 2022 Feb 17;139(7):983-994. doi: 10.1182/blood.2020005466.

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a ubiquitous human tumor virus, which contributes to the development of lymphoproliferative disease, most notably in patients with impaired immunity. EBV-associated lymphoproliferation is characterized by expression of latent EBV proteins and ranges in severity from a relatively benign proliferative response to aggressive malignant lymphomas. The presence of EBV can also serve as a unique target for directed therapies for the treatment of EBV lymphoproliferative diseases, including T cell-based immune therapies. In this review, we describe the EBV-associated lymphoproliferative diseases and particularly focus on the therapies that target EBV.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / complications*
  • Epstein-Barr Virus Infections / virology
  • Herpesvirus 4, Human / isolation & purification*
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy, Adoptive / methods*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / therapy*
  • Lymphoproliferative Disorders / virology