Relevance of Epstein-Barr Virus (EBV) miRNAs in EBV-Infected B Cells and B-Cell Lymphomas

Viral infection is a critical early event in Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-positive B-cell lymphomas. While latent EBV proteins are known to promote cancer development, the role of EBV-encoded microRNAs (miRNAs) is not yet clear. These miRNAs are reported to regulate viral persistence, immune evasion, B-cell survival, and growth. This review compiles evidence on the role of EBV miRNAs in B cells and B-cell lymphomas, including their known target genes, and their effects on cancer-related pathways. By combining profiling studies and results from laboratory models, we highlight how EBV miRNAs might contribute to lymphoma development. Overall, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the biology of EBV-positive B-cell lymphoma, and current knowledge supports a critical role for EBV miRNAs in B cell transformation.