Small DNA Tumour Viruses

Small DNA tumour viruses are a fascinating group of double-stranded DNA viruses, made up of the polyomavirus, the adenovirus and the papillomavirus families. These viruses continue to provide fundamental insights into mammalian cell transformation, cell cycle control and tumour formation. The causal link between papillomaviruses and some human cancers is well known and a role for polyomavirus in human cancer has recently been established. Adenoviruses do not cause cancer in humans but as well as providing excellent tools for the study of host cell processes these viruses have been exploited as delivery vehicles in gene therapy for diseases such as cystic fibrosis and cancer. A common feature of small DNA tumour viruses is their heavy reliance on the host for survival and replication. Understanding the virus-host relationship is critical to understanding the tumourigenic process and how these viruses subvert the host's immune system. In this timely book leading scientists from around the world review current hot-topics in this area providing a fascinating overview of the molecular biology of these viruses and their interactions with the host. Topics covered include: HPV infections and the production of HPV virion stocks; viral oncoproteins and their functions; the replication and maintenance of viral genomes; virus induced alterations in cellular miRNAs; viral deregulation of DNA damage responses; the initiation of viral DNA replication; induction of genomic instability by viral oncoproteins; targeting of PML proteins and PML nuclear bodies by these viruses; adenoviruses and gene therapy. Essential reading for scientists and researchers working on small DNA tumour viruses and their associated diseases and a recommended text for anyone involved with DNA replication, DNA damage responses and genome instability, virus-host interactions, viral tumourigenesis or antiviral drug development.