The Central Role of the Ubiquitin-Proteasome System in EBV-Mediated Oncogenesis

Deregulation of the ubiquitin–proteasome system (UPS) plays a critical role in the development of numerous human cancers. Epstein–Barr virus (EBV), the first known human tumor virus, has evolved distinct molecular mechanisms to manipulate the ubiquitin–proteasome system, facilitate its successful infection, and drive opportunistic cancers. The interactions of EBV antigens with the ubiquitin–proteasome system can lead to oncogenesis through the targeting of cellular factors involved in proliferation. Recent studies highlight the central role of the ubiquitin–proteasome system in EBV infection. This review will summarize the versatile strategies in EBV-mediated oncogenesis that contribute to the development of specific therapeutic approaches to treat EBV-associated malignancies.