HERPES VIRUS-LIKE SEQUENCES ARE SPECIFICALLY FOUND IN KAPOSI-SARCOMA LESIONS

Aim-To detect the prevalence of herpes virus-like DNA sequences in AID S associated Kaposi sarcoma (KSHV) lesions and normal tissue. Methods- KSHV detection was performed by polymerase chain reaction (PCR) using four different sets of primers. PCR products were cloned, sequenced, a nd analysed. Results-All of four biopsies of Kaposi sarcoma lesions an d all of three paraffin embedded Kaposi sarcoma tissues were positive for KSHV, while normal tissue from the same patients was negative. Seq uence analysis of amplification products revealed polymorphisms that r esult in amino acid changes of the predicted sequence. Conclusions-KSH V is prevalent in tissues from Kaposi sarcoma, suggesting a role in th e development of the tumour. On this basis, anti-herpes virus agents s hould be considered to control Kaposi sarcoma.