THE MAMMARY TUMOR VIRUS

WHAT IS MTV?

A B type retrovirus found in mice, cats, dogs, and humans that is a critical factor in the development of breast and prostate cancers. The link to breast cancer has already been demonstrated, and is described in mammals and in humans.  Prospective studies to confirm that MTV causes human cancer are pending; though based on scientific data published over the past 50 years in peer-reviewed journals, researchers suspect that it plays a causative role.

WHERE IS IT FOUND?

Prevalence varies by geography. Areas of the world with the highest rates of breast cancer are also the same areas with the highest infestation of mice species that carry the virus. MTV has also been found in other animal species, as well as in primates. Cancer prevalence and type, as well as severity, can be directly related to MTV infection.

HOW IS IT DETECTED?

Pathological analysis of blood, saliva, and breast tissue (both malignant and pre-malignant), as well as semen in men, shows evidence of the virus in several studies. With appropriate diagnostics, it could be detectable in blood as well as saliva swabs.

HOW DOES IT CAUSE BREAST CANCER?

Transmission may occur through blood, saliva, semen, and/or breast milk. Transmission may occur across species as well as between people.

Cancer development as the result of MTV infection occurs through “insertional mutagenesis” i.e., the viral genes insert randomly in the genome of the cell it infects (e.g., saliva, white blood cells, seminal vesicles, and breast tissue). In doing so, it triggers malignant transformation of the cell, with the help of hormones and, perhaps, other viruses like HPV and EBV.

WHAT DO WE PLAN TO DO ABOUT IT?

Definitively prove the link between MTV and both breast and prostate cancers through prospective study, while simultaneously providing the groundwork for the development of both preventative and therapeutic vaccines to prevent the cancers, as well as recurrences. Through better understanding of the virus and how it spreads, we will also help healthcare systems develop new treatment modalities that may be less invasive and more tolerable for existing cancer patients.