Inhibition of Epstein-Barr virus infection by Kalanchoe pinnata extract

Authors

Lance A. Stutz, Brigham Young University
Dr. Brian Poole, Brigham Young University

Keywords

Epstein-Barr virus, EBV, kalanchoe pinnata extract, immune system

College

Life Sciences

Department

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) is a common infectious agent which infects more than 95% of adults worldwide (1). EBV is related to a number of diseases, including cancers such as Burkitt’s lymphoma and nasopharyngeal carcinoma, and is the causative agent of infectious mononucleosis (2). Upon infection, EBV invades antibody-producing immune cells known as B cells. Most people do not show signs or symptoms of the infection because EBV tends to hide in B cells in a latent state. Latent EBV infection contributes to the development of EBV-associated cancers. However, EBV can also be in an active or lytic state. In this state, EBV infects and then destroys B cells. Such damage to the immune system is often made manifest as prolonged fatigue, which is the main symptom of mononucleosis. The immune system is usually able to overcome an active infection after a period of time, but no drug is known to effectively inhibit EBV in vivo.

Recommended Citation

Stutz, Lance A. and Poole, Dr. Brian (2014) "Inhibition of Epstein-Barr virus infection by Kalanchoe pinnata extract," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2014: Iss. 1, Article 771.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2014/iss1/771