Induction of Epstein-Barr virus antigens in human lymphoblastoid P3HR-1 cells with culture fluid of Fusobacterium nucleatum.

Epstein-Barr virus-associated early antigen and viral capsid antigen were efficiently induced in human lymphoblastoid P3HR-1 cells with culture fluid of Fusobacterium nucleatum, a member of the indigenous microbial flora of the human host. This finding may suggest a new approach to assess the possible role of the "cofactor(s)" in the etiology of Epstein-Barr virus-related diseases.