The role of Toll-like receptors (TLRs) in virus-related cancers: a mini review

Abstract

The modulation of the host innate immune system is a well-established carcinogenesis feature of several tumors, including human Epstein-Barr (EBV) and Papillomavirus-(HPV) related cancers. These viruses are able to interrupt the initial events of the immune response, including the expression of Toll-like receptors (TLRs), cytokines, and inflammation. The aim of the study is to review current data and summarize knowledge on the TLRs and their role in the development of cancer, especially viral-related cancers (EBV and HPV). Research work shows a correlation between the TLRs polymorphism and the development of oropharyngeal and gastric cancer (GC), especially related to viral infections. Many studies suggest the important role for TLRs in inflammatory, autoimmune disease and human cancers. However, further efforts are necessary to draw a precise conclusion.

The Importance of Toll-like Receptor 9 Expression on Monocytes and Dendritic Cells in the Context of Epstein–Barr Virus Infection in the Immunopathogenesis of Primary Glomerulonephritis

“…Scientific reports indicate that increased expression of LMP1 in B lymphocytes blocked the activity of the TLR9 promoter, mRNA and protein levels. In addition, studies suggest that TLR9 concentration is lower in EBV-positive patients than in EBV-negative patients, and the presence of early antigen (EA) in serum, correlating with decreased TLR9 expression, may indicate EBV reactivation in the study group [ 34 ].…”