Objective:

To systematically discuss the molecular basis of EBV infection and its contributions to T/NK cell lymphoproliferative disorders.

Approach:

• Molecular Mechanisms: The review covers viral biological properties, regulation of latent and lytic cycles, key viral protein functions, miRNA regulatory mechanisms, and host signaling pathways relevant to EBV-related T/NK cell lymphoproliferative disorders.
• Pathogenic Contributions: Focus on the pathogenic contributions of these mechanisms in EBV-related T/NK cell lymphoproliferative diseases.
• Therapeutic Strategies: Development of targeted therapeutic strategies, including PD-1/PD-L1 immune checkpoint inhibitors and EBV-specific T cell therapy.

Key Findings:

• EBV can lead to a range of lymphoproliferative disorders, particularly aggressive T/NK cell subtypes.
• EBV-positive T/NK-cell disorders exhibit heterogeneity, with varying disease progression and characteristics.
• High-sensitivity detection methods may reveal EBV involvement in cases previously classified as EBV-negative.

Interpretation:

A comprehensive understanding of EBV infection in T/NK cells requires integration of various factors including viral taxonomy, detection methodology, and immune microenvironment.

Limitations:

• EBV-related T/NK-cell disorders are complex and cannot be viewed as a linear progression from infection to malignancy.
• Conventional detection methods may underestimate EBV involvement in T/NK-cell lymphoproliferative disorders.

Conclusion:

The review emphasizes the need for personalized medicine and advanced detection methods in the management of EBV-related diseases.