Oncogenic Viruses Rewire the Epigenome in Human Cancer

Strategic Insights -

Researchers at the Universidad de Las Americas have conducted a comprehensive review on the role of oncogenic viruses in modulating the epigenetic landscape of human cancer. The study highlights the significant contribution of viruses, such as human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV), to approximately 15-20% of global cancer cases. These viruses orchestrate widespread and durable changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin accessibility, and non-coding RNA expression, promoting tumorigenesis and silencing tumor suppressors.

Key Takeaways:

  • Oncogenic viruses, such as HPV, EBV, HBV, and HCV, contribute to approximately 15-20% of global cancer cases.
  • These viruses reshape the host epigenome to establish persistent infection and promote tumorigenesis through widespread and durable changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin accessibility, and non-coding RNA expression.
  • Oncogenic viruses orchestrate changes that silence tumor suppressors, deregulate oncogenic pathways, and induce stemness-like phenotypes.
  • The study highlights recent advances in therapeutic strategies, including oncolytic virotherapy, epigenetic drugs, and immune modulation through combinational therapy.
  • These integrated approaches hold transformative potential for more durable and targeted treatment outcomes.

Statistics:

  • 15-20% of global cancer cases are attributed to oncogenic viruses.
  • Oncogenic viruses modulate the epigenetic landscape in human cancer through widespread and durable changes in DNA methylation, histone modification, chromatin accessibility, and non-coding RNA expression.
  • Recent advances in therapeutic strategies, including oncolytic virotherapy, epigenetic drugs, and immune modulation through combinational therapy, hold transformative potential for more durable and targeted treatment outcomes.

Sources:

  • Universidad de Las Americas
  • Frontiers in Cellular and Infection Microbiology
  • doi-org.sdpl.idm.oclc.org/10.3389/fcimb.2025.1617198
  • Hepatitis Weekly