EBER

EBER is an acronym for: Epstein-Barr virus-encoded RNA. EBER refers to a group of small, non-coding RNAs that are produced by the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV). These are EBER-1 and EBER-2, which are expressed in large quantities in cells infected with EBV. Although these RNAs do not encode proteins, they play an important role in modulating host cell processes and contribute to tumorigenesis.

Significance in pathology:

• In pathological diagnostics, an EBER in situ hybridization test (EBER-ISH) is frequently performed. With this test, EBER RNAs can be detected directly in tissue samples. EBER is highly sensitive and specific for EBV infections and is therefore a reliable marker in diagnostics.

An EBER test is frequently used for:

• Lymphomas, especially Hodgkin's lymphoma and diffuse large B-cell lymphoma (DLBCL), nasopharyngeal carcinoma, post-transplant lymphoproliferative diseases (PTLD), Burkitt's lymphoma, etc. The detection of EBER in malignant cells confirms an EBV-associated disease. It helps to better understand the cause of the tumor and can influence therapeutic decisions.

1. Weiss LM et al. (2013) EBER in situ hybridization for Epstein-Barr virus. Methods Mol Biol 999:223-230.