A human MMTV-like betaretrovirus linked to breast cancer has been present in humans at least since the copper age.

摘要: The betaretrovirus Mouse Mammary Tumor Virus (MMTV) is the well characterized etiological agent of mammary tumors in mice. In contrast, etiology sporadic human breast cancer (BC) unknown, but accumulating data indicate a possible viral origin also for these malignancies. presence MMTVenv-like sequences (MMTVels) salivary glands and saliva supports latter as route inter-human dissemination. absence demonstration mouse-man transmission MMTV, we considered possibility that cross-species could have occurred ancient times. Therefore, investigated MMTVels dental calculus, which originates from an excellent material paleovirology. calculus was collected 36 skulls, excluding any mouse contamination. MMTV-like were identified 6 individuals dated Copper Age to 17th century. compared with known endogenous betaretroviruses animal exogenous betaretroviruses, confirming their relation MMTV. These reveal similar MMTV has existed at least since 4,500 years ago indirectly support hypothesis it play role cancer.