Molecular and cellular interplay in virus-induced tumors in solid organ recipients

Abstract

Patients following solid organ transplantation show a higher risk of developing cancer compared to the general population. Elevated risk is likely due to the interplay of a combination of factors, such as chronic inflammation, coexisting medical conditions, immunosuppressive regimen and persistent infection with oncogenic viruses. In addition, the tumor microenvironment plays a pivotal role in cancer progression, by driving recruitment and in situ differentiation of anti-inflammatory cells of the adaptive and innate immune system such as regulatory T cells, Th17, Dendritic Cells, Myeloid Derived Suppressor Cells, Type 2 Macrophages. Here we discuss the molecular role and the contribution to oncogenesis of Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV/HHV8) and Hepatitis C virus (HCV) in immunocompromised patients and describe how these viruses may contribute to oncogenesis both directly and indirectly.

Keywords: Epstein-Barr virus; Hepatitis C virus (HCV); Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus; Oncogenic viruses; Solid organ transplantation.