Role of Viral miRNAs and Epigenetic Modifications in Epstein-Barr Virus-Associated Gastric Carcinogenesis

Figure 1

Graphical representation of possible mechanisms by which viral miRNAs and viral proteins might contribute to EBV-associated gastric carcinogenesis. This model indicates that EBV-encoded miRNAs (e.g., BART miRNAs and BHRF-1 miRNAs) target viral genes to mediate immune evasion or maintenance of latency, whereas some viral proteins (e.g., LMP2A) promote aberrant host DNA methylation and subsequent inactivation of tumor suppressor genes via DNA methyltransferases (DNMTs) induction. In addition, these viral miRNAs incorporated into RISC complex can also interact directly with specific host genes involved in immune surveillance, cell proliferation, and apoptosis, playing a crucial role in the aetiology of diverse diseases including EBVaGC.