NF-κB signaling modulation by EBV and KSHV

The nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling pathway is pivotal for immune system function. Not surprisingly, pathogenic microorganisms have developed strategies to subvert it. Two examples are Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) and Kaposi sarcoma herpesvirus (KSHV), oncogenic gammaherpesviruses that establish a lifelong latent infection in their human hosts. The modulation of NF-κB signaling by EBV and KSHV is not only important for viral infection, but also contributes to the development of malignant neoplasia. This review explores the current knowledge of NF-κB modulation by EBV and KSHV, focusing on connections between viral biology and human carcinogenesis.