Integrating polymer science and virology for next-generation diagnostics of oncogenic viruses

Oncogenic viruses represent a major global health challenge, contributing significantly to the burden of cancer through chronic infection, immune evasion, and oncogenic transformation. Despite substantial advances in understanding the molecular biology of viruses such as HPV, HBV, HCV, EBV, and HTLV-1, early and accurate detection remains a key obstacle to managing virus-induced malignancies. Current diagnostic approaches often suffer from limited sensitivity, complexity of use, or lack of accessibility in resource-limited settings, hindering widespread application. Recent research has explored polymer-based biosensors, particularly those employing molecularly imprinted and stimuli-responsive polymers, as transformative tools capable of enabling precise detection of viral biomarkers in complex matrices. Electrochemical, optical, and nanostructured polymer platforms have shown potential for achieving enhanced selectivity, sensitivity, and portability. However, critical challenges remain regarding the integration of these advanced sensing systems with real-world biological samples and the establishment of robust, scalable diagnostic workflows suitable for routine use and early disease prognosis.This Research Topic aims to advance the design and application of polymer-enabled biosensing platforms for the detection and prognosis of oncogenic viruses. It seeks to bridge virology, polymer chemistry, and bioelectrochemistry to create sensitive, robust, and cost-effective diagnostic systems. Emphasis will also be given to exploiting the unique recognition properties of molecularly imprinted polymers and stimuli-responsive materials to improve biomarker detection within complex biofluids. The goal is to foster translational research that unites basic viral pathogenesis studies with innovations in biosensor engineering and sample processing. This includes integrating minimally invasive sampling technologies—such as microneedle platforms and liquid biopsy interfaces—toward developing real-time, point-of-care diagnostics that can operate effectively in low-resource contexts. By addressing these interdisciplinary challenges, the Research Topic seeks to facilitate earlier diagnosis, improved patient monitoring, and equitable access to precision oncology diagnostics.The scope of this Research Topic encompasses the exploration of oncogenic virus mechanisms, biomarker discovery, and diagnostic technology development. It welcomes both mechanistic and translational studies focused on the integration of materials science and molecular diagnostics. Research works may span from fundamental studies on virus-induced oncogenesis to the implementation of portable detection platforms for clinical validation across diverse biological samples.To gather further insights into oncogenic virus biology and detection science, we welcome articles addressing, but not limited to, the following themes:o Mechanisms of oncogenic viral infection, transformation, and progression, including co-infection dynamics and tumor microenvironment interactions.o Advanced sample types and collection strategies, covering liquid biopsies, saliva, cytology, and minimally invasive microneedle-based sampling techniques.o Polymer-based biosensor materials, including molecularly imprinted and stimuli-responsive polymers for improved selectivity and biofouling resistance.o Development of nanocomposite and hybrid polymer systems for enhanced signal transduction in electrochemical and optical biosensors.o Integration of biosensing devices into portable, wearable, or microfluidic point-of-care systems designed for scalable deployment in diverse healthcare settings.Appendix — Article types accepted: Original research articles, reviews, mini-reviews, and perspective papers. Topic editors: Nidhi Verma, Felix Plamper, Dr.Alok Pandya Source: https://www.frontiersin.org/research-topics/83369/integrating-polymer-science-and-virology-for-next-generation-diagnostics-of-oncogenic-viruses