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Journal of Undergraduate Research

Keywords

IRF7 expression, B cells, EBV, Epstein-Barr Virus, lupus erythematosus

College

Life Sciences

Department

Microbiology and Molecular Biology

Abstract

Systemic lupus erythematosus, commonly known simply as lupus, is an incurable autoimmune disorder that can cause inflammation and tissue damage in virtually any part of the body. Many studies have shown a correlation between lupus diagnosis and positive infection with Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV). Scientists currently estimate that greater than 90% of the adult US population is infected with this human herpesvirus, probably because it is easily transferred through saliva. Although we do not entirely understand how it contributes to lupus it is apparent there is a link between the two. Other research has shown that EBV may also play a role in infectious mononucleosis, and certain types of cancer, such as Hodgkin’s lymphoma and Burkitt’s lymphoma. It is important to note that many of the people who test positive for EBV infection exhibit no signs or symptoms associated with these illnesses. Genetics and environmental factors, as well as EBV, are believed to play an important role in whether or not a particular disease develops.

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