Human cytomegalovirus-mediated immunomodulation: Effects on glioblastoma progression.

Document Type

Article

Publication Date

8-1-2017

Publication Title

Biochim Biophys Acta Rev Cancer

Keywords

Brain Neoplasms; Cytomegalovirus; Cytomegalovirus Infections; Disease Progression; Glioblastoma; Humans; Immunomodulation

Abstract

The presence of human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) and glioblastoma multiforme (GBM), first established in 2002, has developed into an area of considerable interest and controversy. Numerous studies have found evidence of possible HCMV infection of GBM tumor cells as well as myriad onco- and immunomodulatory properties exhibited by HCMV antigens and transcripts, while recent reports have failed to detect HCMV particles in GBM and question the virus' role in tumor progression. This review highlights the known immunomodulatory properties of HCMV, independent of GBM infection status, that help drive the virus from peripheral blood into the vital tissues and subsequently dampen local immune response, assisting GBM tumors in evading immune surveillance and contributing to the disease's poor prognosis. Emerging antiviral approaches to treating GBM, including antiviral drugs and immunotherapies directed against HCMV, are also examined.

Clinical Institute

Cancer

Clinical Institute

Neurosciences (Brain & Spine)

Department

Oncology

Department

Neurosciences

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