Viruses Can Make Cells Fuse

• Measles and mumps viruses cause a type of cell fusion

• Also seen in some types of cancer

• Don't continue to divide; die and are reabsorbed by the body

• ≥10% cancers at least partially caused by viruses

• Human papillomavirus (HPV)

• Hepatitis B and C

• Epstein-Barr virus (mononucleosis, or "mono")

What are syncytia?

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Is there a link between viruses and cancer?