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Tumour promoter TPA enhances transformation of human leukocytes by Epstein–Barr virus

Nature volume 280, pages 244–245 (1979)Cite this article

Abstract

TUMOUR-promoting phorbol esters have contributed to the concept of multiple-step carcinogenesis1, as illustrated in the two-stage mouse skin carcinogenesis model2. Promoters are not significantly carcinogenic when tested alone, but decrease the threshold dose of carcinogens (initiators) and reduce the latency period for tumour appearance. 12-O-tetradecanoyl-phorbol-13-acetate (TPA) and several other diterpene esters represent potent tumour promoters3–5. Recently, it has been shown that these promoters efficiently induce persisting genomes of oncogenic herpesviruses, particularly of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV)6–8, resulting in high percentages of viral antigen and particle-positive cells. Other observations showed that TPA enhances in vitro transformation of fibroblasts previously exposed to polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, UV light or adenoviruses9–12. These studies prompted us to analyse the effect of TPA not only on virus induction in EBV genome-harbouring cells, but also on EBV-induced transformation of human cord blood lymphocytes. Our data show that low concentrations of TPA significantly enhance transformation of lymphocytes by EBV.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Institut für Virologie, Zentrum für Hygiene, Universität Freiburg, Hermann-Herder-Str. 11, 78, Freiburg, FRG

    NAOKI YAMAMOTO & HARALD ZUR HAUSEN

Authors
  1. NAOKI YAMAMOTO
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  2. HARALD ZUR HAUSEN
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YAMAMOTO, N., HAUSEN, H. Tumour promoter TPA enhances transformation of human leukocytes by Epstein–Barr virus. Nature 280, 244–245 (1979). https://doi.org/10.1038/280244a0

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