Epstein-Barr virus
Coverage of Epstein-Barr virus in the Nexus archive.
- Why Some Dementia Patients 'Return' Before They Die; Rise in Mild Autism; EBV and MS
The New York Times explored terminal lucidity in dementia patients, a phenomenon where cognitive abilities briefly return before death. The article also notes a rise in mild autism cases and a link between Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) and multiple sclerosis (MS).
- Best treatment for multiple sclerosis may be antivirals
Research suggests antivirals targeting the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) may be the most effective treatment for multiple sclerosis (MS). Studies found people with MS produce twice as many CD4 T-cells targeting proteins from actively replicating EBV compared to those without MS, indicating a distinct immune response. Researchers urge pharmaceutical companies to develop EBV-specific antiviral drugs for future MS therapy.
- 95% of people carry this virus and scientists may have just found how to stop it
Scientists have developed human-like antibodies that block Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) from infecting immune cells, with one antibody completely preventing infection in lab models. EBV, which affects 95% of people, is linked to cancer and chronic diseases, and this breakthrough marks progress in tackling its widespread impact.
- EBV strain interacts with host HLA to drive nasopharyngeal carcinoma risk
A genome-to-genome association study published in Nature identifies how interactions between Epstein-Barr virus strains and host HLA genes contribute to nasopharyngeal carcinoma risk in southern China. The research highlights key host and viral factors driving the endemicity of the disease in the region.
- Hidden human–virus interactions uncovered in DNA in blood and saliva
A study published in Nature reveals viral DNA abundance in blood and saliva correlates with age, sex, and genetic variants. High Epstein-Barr virus levels are linked to Hodgkin’s lymphoma as a causal risk factor.