Changes in cellular transcriptome in response to inhibitors of Epstein-Barr virus

Burkitt lymphoma cells can be latently infected with Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). The virus may be activated into its lytic cycle by small molecules, such as sodium butyrate. Other molecules, such as valproate and valpromide, block viral lytic reactivation. These pharmacological agents alter the cellular physiology that controls viral lytic gene expression. Changes in the cellular transcription were measured in response to one activator and two inhibitors of the Epstein-Barr virus lytic cycle in order to identify cellular genes that are potential regulators of the viral life cycle.