Vpr-induced DNA double-strand breaks: molecular mechanism and biological relevance.

We focus on the role of Vpr in inducing DNA double-strand breaks (DSBs) in the host cell. Based on the summarized findings of Vpr-induced DSBs and the finding of Vpr in the plasma of HIV-1-positive patients, we discuss the roles of Vpr in viral infection, especially viral infection of resting macrophages. We also describe the possible involvement of Vpr in non-AIDS-defining cancers, which represent an emerging crisis in HIV-1-positive patients.