What is it about?
This study uncovers a previously unknown role for the human protein HSF2 in reactivating dormant viruses linked to cancer, specifically Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi’s sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV). The researchers found that HSF2 helps open up viral DNA, allowing the viruses to switch from a silent state to active replication. These findings shed new light on how certain human factors may contribute to virus-driven cancer development.
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Why is it important?
This discovery is important because it reveals how a human protein, HSF2, can help reactivate viruses that are linked to cancer. Understanding what triggers these viruses to “wake up” gives scientists new clues about how virus-driven cancers may start or progress. It could also open up new possibilities for preventing or treating these cancers by targeting the reactivation process.
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This page is a summary of: Heat shock factor 2 regulates oncogenic gamma-herpesvirus gene expression by remodeling the chromatin at the ORF50 and BZLF1 promoter, PLoS Pathogens, April 2025, PLOS,
DOI: 10.1371/journal.ppat.1013108.
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