Endogenous retroviruses(ERVs)are remnants of exogenous retrovirus that have infected the host and integrated into the host's genome during evolution.A series of recent studies have shown that human endogenous retroviruses(HERVs)in human genome not only regulate embryonic development,but also manifest non-negligible associations with human malignancy,as well as aging and neurodegenerative diseases.This article reviews the origin and regulatory mechanisms of HERVs;their roles in malignant tumors,aging,and neurodegenerative diseases,with a special focus on the dual functions of HERVs in tumorigenesis.Such insights will help us better understand the physiological and pathological significance of HERVs,and stimulate the development of HERV-oriented diagnostic and therapeutic strategies,providing new clues for the prevention and intervention of the related human diseases.
关键词
人内源逆转录病毒/肿瘤/衰老/神经退行性疾病/病毒拟态/肿瘤特异性抗原
Key words
human endogenous retroviruses/cancer/aging/neurodegenerative diseases/viral mimicry/tumor-specific antigens