Common Virus Linked to Cancer by Danbury Scientists

A common virus has been linked by Danbury scientists to cancer.

According to an article in the Danbury News Times, scientists at the Western Connecticut Health Network Research Institute in Danbury found evidence that human cells containing the Epstein-Barr virus can be reactivated when passed through a tumor.

When that happens, the article said, the tumor and virus work in combination suppressing the patient’s immune system.

Epstein-Barr virus is a member of the herpes virus family.

Details of the discovery were published in “PLOS ONE,” a peer-reviewed journal from the nonprofit Public Library of Science.

The News Times reported that the findings could lead to the development of a blood test to detect “abnormal activation of the Epstein-Barr virus in early stage cancer patients” and increase the chances of surviving cancer.

For the entire article, read the Danbury News Times here.