TWiV 1309: Maybe they're all cancer vaccines

This Week in Virology episode 1309 explores two groundbreaking scientific developments: the exceptional sterilizing immunity conferred by the HPV vaccine and the link between severe respiratory viral infections and increased lung cancer risk. The episode begins with a heartfelt tribute to scientists Mike Bishop and David Botstein, followed by a discussion on the HPV vaccine's unique ability to prevent infection long-term—unlike most vaccines—due to the virus's slow, multi-step entry into basal keratinocytes and the prolonged window for antibody-mediated neutralization, even post-attachment. This mechanism, involving multiple intracellular and extracellular neutralization strategies, explains why HPV vaccines are nearly 100% effective at preventing cancer and infection. The second major topic reveals a preprint in Cell showing that prior severe respiratory infections, including SARS-CoV-2 and influenza, prime the lung microenvironment to promote tumor growth by reprogramming neutrophils into a pro-tumor state via epigenetic changes and cytokine signaling (GCSF, TGF-β). These Siglec F-high neutrophils enhance tumor burden and suppress T-cell responses, but vaccination prevents this effect. The episode concludes with a powerful message: getting vaccinated not only prevents acute illness but may also reduce long-term cancer risk by preserving immune balance. The hosts also share uplifting listener picks, including a medical school journey from janitor to doctor and a thought-provoking video on why advanced societies fall for delusion.