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J. Virol., Nov 1996, 8218-8223, Vol 70, No. 11
E Cesarman, RG Nador, F Bai, RA Bohenzky, JJ Russo, PS Moore, Y Chang and DM Knowles
A new human herpesvirus was recently identified in all forms of Kaposi's
sarcoma (Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus [KSHV] or human
herpesvirus 8), as well as in primary effusion (body cavity- based)
lymphomas (PELs). A 12.3-kb-long KSHV clone was obtained from a PEL genomic
library. Sequencing of this clone revealed extensive homology and
colinearity with the right end of the herpesvirus saimiri (HVS) genome and
more limited homology to the left end of the Epstein- Barr virus genome.
Four open reading frames (ORFs) were sequenced and characterized; these are
homologous to the following viral and/or cellular genes: (i) Epstein-Barr
virus membrane antigen p140 and HVS p160, (ii) HVS and cellular type D
cyclins, (iii) HVS and cellular G protein-coupled receptors, and (iv) HVS.
Since there is considerable evidence that cyclin D1 and some G
protein-coupled receptors contribute to the development of specific
cancers, the presence of KSHV homologs of these genes provides support for
a role for KSHV in malignant transformation. All ORFs identified are
transcribed in PELs and Kaposi's sarcoma tissues, further suggesting an
active role for KSHV in these diseases.
Copyright © 1996, American Society for Microbiology
Kaposi's sarcoma-associated herpesvirus contains G protein-coupled receptor and cyclin D homologs which are expressed in Kaposi's sarcoma and malignant lymphoma
Department of Pathology, The New York Hospital-Cornell Medical Center, New York 10021, USA.
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