Pathogenesis of AIDS lymphoma: role of oncogenic viruses and B cell activation-associated molecular lesions

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: We discuss recently published studies that elucidate the pathogenesis of AIDS-associated lymphoma. RECENT FINDINGS: Several recent reports have provided valuable new information on the role of gamma-herpesviruses in the pathogenesis of AIDS-associated lymphoma. In addition to this, significant new information has become available on how B cell activation-associated DNA-modifying events, involving activation-induced cytidine deaminase and DNA polymerase-eta, contribute to the molecular lesions that result in AIDS-associated lymphoma. In particular, new evidence that oncogenic viruses can directly induce activation-induced cytidine deaminase expression and oncogene mutation in human B cells is of central relevance to better understanding the pathogenesis of AIDS-associated lymphoma. SUMMARY: New information provides insights into the contributions of immune dysfunction and oncogenic virus infection to pathogenesis of AIDS-associated lymphoma, and may lead to new potential targets for therapeutic intervention in these cancers.