Epstein–Barr virus: novel patented therapeutics

Importance of the field: Therapeutic strategies against Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) infection and associated cancers are still limited. Due to the primary role of this virus in the pathogenesis of these diseases, molecules interfering with EBV protein functions may represent effective therapeutic tools to treat EBV-associated diseases.Areas covered in this review: Active immunotherapeutic protocols targeting EBV and EBV-associated cancers are reviewed first; then, we reviewed adoptive cellular therapies, innovative pharmacological approaches and other non-conventional therapeutic molecules.What the reader will gain: The published literature, in particular patent publications on EBV therapeutic options, has been searched for relevant information. This information has been organized and discussed.Take home message: Many promising therapeutic opportunities are identified. Among these, vaccination protocols and adoptive cellular therapies are the most advanced and reached Phase I/II clinical trials. Pharmacologi...