Virus-Targeted Therapeutic for Breast Cancer
Abstract
We have developed small molecules to alter the transcriptional response of viral genes for the treatment of human breast cancer. The transcriptional activity of certain viral genes, including the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) Thymidine Kinase (TK) gene, is enhanced by these drugs. Exposure to Arginine Butyrate induces the latent TK gene in EBV-infected cells, resulting in susceptibility to ganciclovir. Our approach initially involves investigation of EBV sequences in breast cancer cell lines and specimens, determination of whether treatment with Arginine Butyrate will induce the viral thymidine kinase gene, and determination in vitro of whether the induction of the TK gene and gene product makes the breast cancer cells now susceptible to ganciclovir. The purpose of this proposal is to explore the association of EBV- infection and breast cancer, and to develop an EBV-based strategy for treating breast cancer.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Aug 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA338733
Entities
People
- Douglas V. Faller
Organizations
- Boston University