# Antibody and Cell-Based Therapies against Virus-Induced Cancers in the Context of HIV/AIDS

## TL;DR

This paper reviews how viruses like HIV increase cancer risk and explores antibody and cell-based therapies for treating virus-induced cancers.

## Contribution

The paper provides an overview of current therapeutic strategies targeting virus-induced cancers, particularly in people living with HIV.

## Key findings

- Seven viruses are recognized as direct oncogenic agents, including EBV, KSHV, HTLV-1, HPV, HCV, HBV, and HIV-1.
- Antibody- and cell-based therapies are being developed to target cancers caused by viral infections.
- Risk factors for cancer in people with HIV include aging, ART toxicity, coinfections, and comorbidities.

## Abstract

Infectious agents, notably viruses, can cause or increase the risk of cancer occurrences. These agents often disrupt normal cellular functions, promote uncontrolled proliferation and growth, and trigger chronic inflammation, leading to cancer. Approximately 20% of all cancer cases in humans are associated with an infectious pathogen. The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) recognizes seven viruses as direct oncogenic agents, including Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV), Kaposi’s Sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV), human T-cell leukemia virus type-1 (HTLV-1), human papilloma virus (HPV), hepatitis C virus (HCV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1). Most viruses linked to increased cancer risk are typically transmitted through contact with contaminated body fluids and high-risk behaviors. The risk of infection can be reduced through vaccinations and routine testing, as well as recognizing and addressing risky behaviors and staying informed about public health concerns. Numerous strategies are currently in pre-clinical phases or undergoing clinical trials for targeting cancers driven by viral infections. Herein, we provide an overview of risk factors associated with increased cancer incidence in people living with HIV (PLWH) as well as other chronic viral infections, and contributing factors such as aging, toxicity from ART, coinfections, and comorbidities. Furthermore, we highlight both antibody- and cell-based strategies directed against virus-induced cancers while also emphasizing approaches aimed at discovering cures or achieving complete remission for affected individuals.