Mechanistic Role of HPV-Associated Early Proteins in Cervical Cancer: Molecular Pathways and Targeted Therapeutic Strategies

Alpha-linolenic acid-mediated epigenetic reprogramming of cervical cancer cell lines

Cervical cancer, the fourth most common cancer globally and the second most prevalent cancer among women in India, is primarily caused by Human Papilloma Virus (HPV). The association of diet with cancer etiology and prevention has been well established and nutrition has been shown to regulate cancer through modulation of epigenetic markers. Dietary fatty acids, especially omega-3, reduce the risk of cancer by preventing or reversing the progression through a variety of cellular targets, including epigenetic regulation. In this work, we have evaluated the potential of ALA (α linolenic acid), an ω-3 fatty acid, to regulate cervical cancer through epigenetic mechanisms. The effect of ALA was evaluated on the regulation of histone deacetylases1, DNA methyltransferases 1, and 3b, and global DNA methylation by ELISA. RT-PCR was utilized to assess the expression of tumor regulatory genes (hTERT, DAPK, RARβ, and CDH1) and their promoter methylation in HeLa (HPV18-positive), SiHa (HPV16-positive) and C33a (HPV-negative) cervical cancer cell lines. ALA increased DNA demethylase, HMTs, and HATs while decreasing global DNA methylation, DNMT, HDMs, and HDACs mRNA expression/activity in all cervical cancer cell lines. ALA downregulated hTERT oncogene while upregulating the mRNA expression of TSGs (Tumor Suppressor Genes) CDH1, RARβ, and DAPK in all the cell lines. ALA reduced methylation in the 5' CpG island of CDH1, RARβ, and DAPK1 promoters and reduced global DNA methylation in cervical cancer cell lines. These results suggest that ALA regulates the growth of cervical cancer cells by targeting epigenetic markers, shedding light on its potential therapeutic role in cervical cancer management.

Risk factors for depression in patients in perimenopause with cervical cancer

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer is a significant health concern among females in perimenopause, with a high prevalence of depression in this population. The rationale for this study was to explore the risk factors associated with depression in patients in perimenopause with cervical cancer. We hypothesized that socioeconomic status, disease characteristics, and quality of life factors contributed to the development of depression in these patients.

AIM

To investigate the risk factors associated with depression in patients in perimenopause with cervical cancer.

METHODS

A retrospective study was conducted on 254 patients in perimenopause with cervical cancer admitted to a single center. Patients were divided into a non-depression group (n = 152) and a depression group (n = 102) based on whether depression occurred after treatment. Data collection included demographic, clinical, and psychosocial factors. The Hamilton Depression Rating Scale was used to assess depression. Logistic regression analysis was performed to identify risk factors.

RESULTS

Patients with depression more often had low income (< 4000 China yuan: 66.7% vs 6.6%, P < 0.001), initial disease onset (70.6% vs 57.2%, P = 0.001), low social support (70.6% vs 55.3%, P = 0.014), pathological stages III-IV (70.6% vs 41.5%, P < 0.001), high pain level (65.7% vs 34.2%, P < 0.001), and poor sleep quality (67.6% vs 32.2%, P < 0.001). Logistic regression identified low income [odds ratio (OR) = 32.606, P < 0.001], initial disease onset (OR = 4.282, P = 0.001), pathological stages III-IV (OR = 4.123, P = 0.0005), high pain level (OR = 1.181, P = 0.0000434), and poor sleep quality (OR = 3.094, P = 0.0041) as key risk factors.

CONCLUSION

Low income, initial onset, low support, advanced stages, high pain, and poor sleep quality increased depression risk in patients in perimenopause with cervical cancer. Studies investigating interventions for this population are needed.

Curcumin nanoemulsion suppresses HPV oncogenes and inhibits cervical cancer progression: in vitro and in vivo study

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer represents a major global health problem, ranking as the fourth most prevalent cancer among women across the globe. The primary risk factor associated with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia and cervical cancer is the human papillomavirus (HPV). Curcumin (Cur), extracted from the root of the Curcuma longa plant, is an anticancer, chemoprotective, and gene/protein regulating agent, which refers to its ability to exert beneficial effects in various aspects of cancer prevention and treatment.

OBJECTIVES

This study investigated the tumor inhibitory effect (anti-tumoral effect) of a novel curcumin nanoemulsion (Cur-NE) on HPV+ TC-1 cells in vitro and in vivo.

METHODS

The MTT assay was used to evaluate the cytotoxicity of Cur-NE and Cur on TC-1 cancer cells and MC3T3 normal cells. In vitro assessment was performed using flow cytometry (Annexin/PI) to examine apoptosis and quantitative PCR (qPCR) analysis to determine the gene expression levels of E6 and E7 human papillomavirus oncogenes, as well as their associated protein factors, p53 and Rb. In addition, C57BL/6 female mice burdening HPV + TC-1 tumor as cervical cancer models were used to investigate the tumor inhibitory effect of the Cur-NE in vivo compared to free curcumin.

RESULTS

In vitro anti-tumoral studies showed that apoptosis and inhibiting cellular proliferation in TC-1 cells were induced effectively by curcumin nanoemulsion. Accordingly, curcumin nanoemulsion reduced mRNA expression levels of E6 and E7 HPV oncogenes and increased p53 and Rb levels in a concentration lower than free curcumin (P < 0.05). Furthermore, the suppression and inhibition of subcutaneous TC-1 tumor growth were more pronounced with the curcumin nanoemulsion compared to free curcumin (P < 0.01).

CONCLUSION

These preeminent preclinical results indicate the potential of this curcumin nanoformulation as an efficient treatment approach for cervical cancer.

HPV-driven cancers: a looming threat and the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 for targeted therapy

Cervical and other anogenital malignancies are largely caused by E6 and E7 oncogenes of high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs), which inhibit important tumor suppressors like p53 and pRb when they are persistently activated. The main goal of traditional treatments is to physically or chemically kill cancer cells, but they frequently only offer temporary relief, have serious side effects, and have a high risk of recurrence. Exploring the efficacy and accuracy of CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing in both inducing death in HPV-infected cancer cells and restoring the activity of tumor suppressors is our main goal. In this study, we propose a novel precision oncology strategy that targets and inhibits the detrimental effects of the E6 and E7 oncogenes using the CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing system. In order to do this, we create unique guide RNAs that target the integrated HPV DNA and reactivate p53 and pRb. Reactivation is meant to halt aberrant cell development and restart the cell's natural dying pathways. This review discusses the potential of CRISPR/Cas9 in targeting HPV oncogenes, with a focus on studies that have demonstrated its promise in cancer treatment. Given the absence of a definitive treatment for papillomavirus infection and its subsequent association with various cancers, future clinical trials and experimental investigations appear essential to establish and evaluate the therapeutic potential of CRISPR-based approaches. This approach provides a less invasive alternative to conventional treatments and opens the door to personalized care that considers the genetic makeup of each patient's tumor.

The viral early protein 4 of human papillomavirus type 16 suppresses innate antiviral immunity

Although non-structural proteins of HPV are known to modulate interferon (IFN) responses, the specific role of HPV16 E4 in immune evasion remains poorly defined. In this study, we demonstrated that HPV16 E4 inhibited IFN and IFN-stimulated gene (ISG) expression induced by VSV, MHV, SeV, HSV1, and HPV16 infection. Plaque assays revealed that E4-expressing cells produced higher titers of VSV and HSV1, supporting its role in promoting viral replication. Dual-luciferase reporter assays and RT-qPCR analyses confirmed that HPV16 E4 attenuates IFN responses by targeting key antiviral pathways, including RIG-I/MDA5-MAVS, TLR3-TRIF, and cGAS-STING. Coimmunoprecipitation and immunoblotting assays revealed that E4 interacted with RIG-I, MDA5, MAVS, TRIF, TBK1, and IRF3, thereby inhibiting the phosphorylation of TBK1 and IRF3. Confocal microscopy and nuclear-cytoplasmic fractionation demonstrated that E4 impaired IRF3 nuclear translocation, a pivotal step in IFN signaling. E4 also suppressed the JAK-STAT pathway, resulting in reduced ISG expression. Furthermore, E4 disrupted ISGF3 complex formation by interacting with STAT2 and IRF9, thereby preventing the nuclear translocation of STAT1, STAT2, and IRF9. Collectively, these mechanisms facilitate viral replication and enable evasion of host antiviral immunity. These findings advance our understanding of HPV immune evasion strategies and suggest novel therapeutic targets for managing HPV-related diseases.

New insights into tumor microenvironment and HPV integrations in cervical cancer pathogenesis revealed by single-cell transcriptome data

HPV infection is common among women and can result in serious illnesses. This research utilizes single-cell RNA-sequencing (scRNA-seq) to study the connection between cellular heterogeneity and HPV integrations in cervical histopathology. scRNA-seq was used to examine heterogeneity among normal patients and those in three disease stages: high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL), microinvasive carcinoma (MIC), and cervical squamous epithelium carcinoma cancer (CSCC) tissues. A method was developed to identify HPV integration events from scRNA-seq data. Our results indicated an increase in squamous epithelial cells and a decrease in columnar epithelial cells as the disease progressed from normal to CSCC. We discovered HPV genes that were differentially expressed across normal patients and those in the three disease stages. Notably, HPV integration events were more common in squamous epithelial cells at the single-cell level. The ratio of HPV-integrated cells increased as the disease progressed from normal tissue to CSCC, eventually stabilizing. Several genes, such as EGR1, S100A11, S100A8, KRT5, RPL34, ATP1B1, RPS4X and EEF2, were frequently integrated by HPV across patients. In contrast, genes like PAN3, BABAM2, SPEN, TCIM-SIRLNT, TEX41-PABPC1P2 and KCNV1-LINC01608 showed frequent integration events across cells. KRT5, ATP1B1, RPS4X, PAN3 and SPEN were novel recurrent HPV-integrated genes we observed at the patient or cell level in this study. Additionally, we found that HPV genes from various HPV types exhibited integration preferences in various samples and disease stages. This provides a valuable insight into the mechanism of HPV-induced cervical cancer from a single-cell standpoint, highlighting its clinical relevance.

The promise of PD1/PDL1 targeted immunotherapy in locally advanced cervical cancer: a game-changer for patients outcome?

Locally advanced cervical cancer remains a significant therapeutic challenge, with high rates of recurrence and metastasis despite advances in chemoradiation. Immunotherapy, particularly immune checkpoint inhibitors targeting the PD-1/PD-L1 axis, has emerged as a promising strategy to enhance treatment efficacy. This review explores the integration of immunotherapy with standard chemoradiation, highlighting the potential of PD-1 inhibitors, such as pembrolizumab, in improving progression-free survival (PFS) among high-risk patients. Furthermore, the role of predictive biomarkers, including microsatellite instability (MSI) and tumor mutational burden (TMB), is examined to refine patient selection and personalize therapeutic approaches. Emerging strategies, including the use of nivolumab, ipilimumab, and maintenance immunotherapy, are also discussed. While preliminary clinical data are encouraging, further research is required to optimize treatment combinations, establish robust patient selection criteria, and enhance long-term outcomes in cervical cancer management.

Human papilloma virus infection drives unique metabolic and immune profiles in head and neck and cervical cancers: implications for targeted therapies and prognostic markers

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a key driver of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) and cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC). Yet, these cancers exhibit distinct molecular and clinical features influenced by HPV status. This study utilizes RNA sequencing data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). It employs bioinformatics tools, including DESeq2 for differential gene expression, CIBERSORT for immune profiling, and Kaplan-Meier survival analysis to investigate these differences. Differential expression analysis revealed distinct molecular signatures, with HPV-positive tumors enriched in immune-related pathways such as cytokine-cytokine receptor interactions. In contrast, HPV-negative tumors exhibited upregulation of metabolic pathways, including PPAR signaling. Metaflux analysis further demonstrated contrasting metabolic profiles: HPV-positive tumors showed increased glycolysis and oxidative stress regulation, whereas HPV-negative tumors were characterized by elevated amino acid and nucleotide metabolism. Immune profiling highlighted more significant CD8 + T-cell infiltration in HPV-positive tumors, while HPV-negative tumors were predominantly associated with macrophages, suggesting differing tumor immune environments. Survival analysis identified CXCL11 and STAT1 as potential prognostic biomarkers, with lower expression correlating with poorer survival in both cancers. These findings provide an integrated perspective on the molecular, metabolic, and immune differences associated with HPV status, offering insights into potential therapeutic strategies.

Nucleic acid nanobiosystems for cancer theranostics: an overview of emerging trends and challenges

Different cancers remain major global health challenges due to their diverse biological behaviors and significant treatment hurdles. The aging of populations and lifestyle factors increase cancer occurrence and place increasing pressure on healthcare systems. Despite continuous advancements, many cancers remain fatal due to late-stage diagnosis, tumor heterogeneity, and drug resistance, thus necessitating urgent development of innovative treatment solutions. Therapeutic nucleic acids, a new class of biological drugs, offer a promising approach to overcoming these challenges. The recent Nucleic Acids and Nanobiosystems in Cancer Theranostics (NANCT) conference brought together internationally recognized experts from 15 countries to discuss cutting-edge research, spanning from oncolytic viruses to anticancer RNA nanoparticles and other emerging nanotechnologies. This review captures key insights and developments, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary translation of scientific advancements into clinical practice and shaping the future of personalized cancer treatments for improved therapeutic outcomes.

Dynamic causal effects of gut microbiota on cervical Cancer lesion progression

Many investigations have highlighted the involvement of the intestinal microbiota in the progression of cervical cancer lesions; however, the causal link between them remains to be confirmed. We employed two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) as a alternative to randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to explore the association between intestinal microbiota and high-risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN), and cervical cancer (CC). This method allowed for a detailed investigation of the underlying mechanistic interactions within the gut-cervix axis. The analysis predominantly encompassed the utilization of inverse variance weighting (IVW) and the Wald ratio test. Additionally, various sensitivity analysis methods were employed to validate the findings. We uncovered a total of 17 gut microbial taxa associated with HPV infection, 9 taxa related to CIN, and 7 taxa linked to CC. At different stages of cervical cancer lesions, various gut microbial communities play either protective or promoting roles. However, some microbial communities also act as persistent risk factors in promoting the progression of CC. Our investigation has revealed that the gut microbiota exerts a considerable impact along the entire spectrum of CC progression within the gut-cervix axis. These findings lay a foundation for prospective research focused on the utilization of gut microbiota in cervical cancer screening, prevention, and therapeutic strategies.

Five Cellular Genes as Candidates for Cervical Adenocarcinoma Molecular Markers

BACKGROUND/AIM

Cervical adenocarcinoma associated with Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection represents 85-90% of all adenocarcinomas that have poor prognostic factors and is an important health public concern. Currently, cervical adenocarcinoma molecular markers are scarce. This study searched databases and the literature regarding candidate genes to find these molecular markers, which were experimentally evaluated in fresh cervical samples.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Bioinformatic analysis of 161 transcriptomic libraries of cervical tissues with or without lesions from the NCBI database was performed using the Partek Genomics Suite 6.6v software. The selected genes with a p value of >0.05, and 1.5-fold change were considered. A search of molecular marker candidates of cervical lesions that were already published in the literature was performed. To validate the selected genes, total RNA from fresh cervical adenocarcinoma and cervical normal tissues were subjected to RT-PCR experiments; HPV detection was also performed.

RESULTS

Initially, twenty-five genes were identified using bioinformatic analysis, and their expression was evaluated. The results showed that the HOXC6, HOXC8, RARβ, ELAVL2, URG4, CISD2, CA9, BCL2, Survivin, MACC1, CDKN2A, and HPV E6/E7 genes were found to be differentially expressed in CC. Among these, RARβ, MACC1, BCL2, HOXC8, and E6/E7/HPV exhibited higher statistical significance for CC samples.

CONCLUSIONS

This five-gene panel could serve as a novel molecular tool for HPV-associated cervical adenocarcinoma detection.

Targeting HPV for the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of cervical cancer

Despite advances in screening and prevention, cervical cancer (CC) remains an unresolved public health issue and poses a significant global challenge, particularly for women in low-income regions. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, especially with the high-risk strains, is a primary driver of cervical carcinogenesis. Emerging evidence indicates that integrating HPV testing with existing approaches, such as cervical cytology and visual inspection, offers enhanced sensitivity and specificity in CC screening. HPV infection-associated biomarkers, including HPV E6/E7 oncogenes, p16^INK4a, DNA methylation signatures, and non-coding RNAs, offer valuable insights into disease progression and the development of personalized interventions. Preventive and therapeutic vaccination against HPV, along with tertiary prevention strategies such as the use of antiviral and immune-modulating drugs for HPV-related lesions, show great clinical potential. At the mechanistic level, single-cell RNA sequencing analysis and the development of organoid models for HPV infection provide new cellular and molecular insights into HPV-related CC pathogenesis. This review focuses on the crucial roles of HPV in the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of CC, with particular emphasis on the latest advancements in screening and disease intervention.

Molecular Insights into HPV-Driven Cervical Cancer: Oncoproteins, Immune Evasion, and Epigenetic Modifications

Cervical cancer ranks third in mortality and fourth in incidence among women worldwide as one of the leading causes of death from cancer in females. The main reason behind cervical carcinogenesis is long-term infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes, particularly HPV16 and HPV18. This review investigates HPV distribution across the world, along with cervical cancer molecular development mechanisms and current treatment strategies. Epidemiological data show that disease patterns vary significantly between different geographic regions because underdeveloped nations bear a higher disease burden. The molecular mechanisms of oncogenes E6 and E7 disrupt tumor suppressor pathways, while epigenetic modifications through DNA methylation and miRNA dysregulation promote malignant cell transformation. The reduction in HPV infection through prophylactic vaccination has shown promise, yet barriers related to accessibility and coverage still exist. The therapeutic technologies of gene expression inhibitors together with immunotherapies and epigenetic targeting agents show promise but require optimization to achieve specific targeting while minimizing off-target effects. A combined approach that integrates HPV vaccination with early diagnosis and molecular-specific therapies represents the most effective method to manage cervical cancer impact. The future care of patients will require increased translational research along with better immunization programs to drive prevention and therapeutic outcomes.

Design, synthesis, characterization, and antimicrobial potential of peptide derivatives of jurubidine: in-vitro and in-silico study

Herein, we report the synthesis of peptide derivatives of Jurubidine (2a-2h) with a significant yield ranging from 79 to 88% which were characterised by 1H NMR,13C NMR, Mass, and IR spectroscopy. Thereafter, we investigated their antimicrobial and antifungal potency through minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC), and virtually predict the possible mechanism of inhibition via targeting three key proteins. The antimicrobial activity for all the compounds ranging from 100 ± 2.20 to 220 ± 2.65 µg/mL against microbial strains was better than the reference drugs. The compounds 2g and 2h were having better MIC values against all the bacterial strains and also against fungal strains. Physiochemical properties and toxicity profile illustrated that 2h followed by 2f and 2g were the best suitable drug candidate with high GI-absorption. In conclusion, 2g (dipeptide derivative) was found to be most potent antifungal whereas 2h (monopeptide derivative) was the most potent antibacterial compound.

Genetic analysis of HPV-16 L1 gene mutations and computational screening of therapeutic inhibitors for cervical cancer treatment

Cervical cancer, the fourth most common carcinoma in women worldwide, is predominantly caused by persistent infection with high risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV). The human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16) L1 capsid protein plays a crucial role in immune recognition and viral dissemination. This study aims to conduct molecular analysis of the L1 gene from HR-HPV16 samples collected in Lahore, Pakistan, and to identify potential inhibitors against the L1 protein through in-silico analysis. The L1 gene was amplified using PCR (Polymerase Chain Reaction), followed by gel purification and Sanger sequencing. Nucleotide and amino acid sequence alignments were used to assess variant regions. In silico tools, including ADMET, CB DOCK 2 and Maestro Schrodinger, were employed to evaluate different parameters of various compounds with L1 protein. The study identified mutations in L1 sequences, including V357G, V359G, S369A, AND C371W, which could impact HPV-16 behavior and cancer development. Neoechinulin was identified as a promising HPV16 L1 capsid protein inhibitor with the highest binding energy score (-7.6 kcal/mol) against the L1 protein, suggesting potential antiviral efficacy. These mutations may alter the structural integrity of the L1 protein, potentially influencing HPV-16 infectivity and its role in cervical cancer progression, while virtual screening method demonstrated a cost- effective approach for discovering biologically impactful compounds. Neoechinulin identified as a potential HPV16 L1 capsid protein inhibitor through In Silico tools, further in vitro and in vivo studies are needed to confirm its antiviral efficacy.

Targeting the interplay between human papillomavirus oncoproteins and hedgehog signaling: assessment of chemopreventive potential of carvacrol in cervical cancer

Cervical carcinoma is the fourth most frequently diagnosed cancer and is a serious cause of increased mortality among females globally. Hedgehog/GLI signaling has now been established to play a pivotal role in imparting tumor recurrence and promoting metastasis in cervical carcinoma. HPV associated oncoproteins particularly E6/E7 concomitantly with altered signaling pathways are key determinants of cervical cancer. Nevertheless, the nexus between HPV oncogenes and Hedgehog/GLI signaling till date remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the anticancer and apoptotic potential of carvacrol against cervical cancer cells in vitro by targeting the plausible nexus between HPV oncoproteins and Hedgehog signaling. The findings from cell proliferation, LDH cytotoxicity, and morphology analysis suggested that carvacrol treatment significantly decreased the number of viable CaSki cells in a concentration and time-related manner. Morphological trademarks of cell death, including fragmentation of CaSki cell nucleus were studied by DAPI/PI and Hoechst33342 staining. The cytotoxicity of carvacrol was mediated through apoptosis, as confirmed by the Annexin V/FITC assay and caspase activation. Cell cycle analysis showed that carvacrol exerted significant impeding effects on the proliferation of CaSki cells via G0/G1 arrest. Intriguingly, carvacrol mediated the downregulation of HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes indicated its plausible role as an anti-HPV agent against HPV16+ CaSki cells. Additionally, carvacrol further restored p53 expression implicating that carvacrol may protect E6 mediated p53 protein degradation in CaSki cells. Thus, carvacrol exhibited strong antiproliferative potential by inducing apoptosis in cervical carcinoma cells via mediating the crosstalk between the downregulation of HPV oncogenes and inhibition of the hedgehog signaling pathway.

Exploring the metabolic alterations in cervical cancer induced by HPV oncoproteins: From mechanisms to therapeutic targets

The role of human Papillomavirus (HPV) in metabolic reprogramming is implicated in the development and progression of cervical cancer. During carcinogenesis, cancer cells modify various metabolic pathways to generate energy and sustain their growth and development. Cervical cancer, one of the most prevalent malignancies affecting women globally, involves metabolic alterations such as increased glycolysis, elevated lactate production, and lipid accumulation. The oncoproteins, primarily E6 and E7, which are encoded by high-risk HPVs, facilitate the accumulation of several cancer markers, promoting not only the growth and development of cancer but also metastasis, immune evasion, and therapy resistance. HPV oncoproteins interact with cellular MYC (c-MYC), retinoblastoma protein (pRB), p53, and hypoxia-inducible factor 1α (HIF-1α), leading to the induction of metabolic reprogramming and favour the Warburg effect. Metabolic reprogramming enables HPV to persist for an extended period and accelerates the progression of cervical cancer. This review summarizes the role of HPV oncoproteins in metabolic reprogramming and their contributions to the development and progression of cervical cancer. Additionally, this review provides insights into how metabolic reprogramming opens avenues for novel therapeutic strategies, including the discovery of new and repurposed drugs that could be applied to treat cervical cancer.

Ad-E6/7-HR vaccine improves the prophylactic and therapeutic efficacy in HPV-associated cancers

BACKGROUND

High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV), especially HPV16, is closely correlated with certain cancers. E6 and E7 proteins of HPV16 play critical roles in oncogenesis, making them optimal targets for treating HPV-associated cancers. Here, we engineered an innovative vaccine, Ad-E6/7-HR, designed to evoke immune responses through the incorporation of self-assembling heptad-repeat 1 (HR1) and HR2 originated from Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2.

METHODS

Ad-E6/7-HR was constructed utilising a replication-defective human adenovirus serotype 5 vector and evaluated its immunogenicity and therapeutic efficacy in murine models. We verified the antitumour efficacy of the vaccine in TC-1 subcutaneous and pulmonary models. Flow cytometry, enzyme-linked immunospot assay, and immunofluorescence staining were used to assess the cellular immunogenicity of Ad-E6/7-HR.

RESULTS

Ad-E6/7-HR induced robust immune responses, significantly increasing antigen-specific CD8+ T cells. The vaccine also enhanced memory T-cell generation and induced potent cytokine secretion, as exemplified by interferon-γ and tumour necrosis factor-α. Ad-E6/7-HR conferred complete protection against tumour growth in the prophylactic model. In therapeutic settings, Ad-E6/7-HR significantly reduced tumour size and improved survival. Furthermore, Ad-E6/7-HR reshaped the tumour microenvironment by increased CD8+ T-cell recruitment and reduced immunosuppressive cells, like myeloid-derived suppressor cells and M2 macrophages, thereby enhancing antitumour immunity.

CONCLUSIONS

By targeting HPV16 E6 and E7 proteins and leveraging the self-assembling HR1 and HR2 sequences to enhance immune responses, Ad-E6/7-HR represented a promising candidate for preventing and treating HPV-associated cancers. Further clinical investigation is warranted to evaluate its potential in human trials.

NF-κB Activation Is Essential for Cervical Cell Proliferation and Malignant Transformation

NF-κB, a multifunctional transcription factor, is linked to cancer initiation and progression. As a key immune mediator, it may play a crucial role in HPV-induced cervical carcinogenesis. However, consensus is lacking on the activation timing of NF-κB during the transition from cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) to cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). In this study, immunohistochemical analysis was performed to examine RELA, one of the important members of the NF-κB family, and phospho-RELA expression in different cervical lesions. Then, we analyzed NF-κB regulation of differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in cervical lesions vs. normal tissues. Gene enrichment identified oncogenic DEGs, followed by expression and survival analyses. The impact of NF-κB activation on cervical cell proliferation, migration, and oncogenic regulation, as well as the effects of inhibiting NF-κB, were examined. Our study showed that NF-κB activation starts in cervical simple hyperplasia and intensifies as CIN evolves to CSCC. NF-κB-regulated DEGs show stage-specific functions: immune regulation in CIN and cancer promotion in CSCC. Short-term NF-κB activation boosts cervical cell proliferation and migration, which is reversible by an NF-κB inhibitor. Long-term NF-κB activation promotes the expression of cancer-promoting genes in normal cells and also maintains them in cancer tissues, which is linked to poorer prognosis. Inhibiting NF-κB downregulates these genes in cancer cells and suppresses the oncogenic abilities of cervical cancer cells. Collectively, NF-κB activation initiates during the simple hyperplasia stage of cervical cells, stimulating proliferation, migration, and oncogene expression. Throughout the transition from CIN to CSCC, NF-κB activation progressively intensifies, and its long-term activation promotes carcinogenesis. Thus, NF-κB is crucial in mediating cervical oncogenic transformation.

Regulation of epithelial growth factor receptors by the oncoprotein E5 during the HPV16 differentiation-dependent life cycle

Human papillomavirus (HPV) 16 infection initiates upon viral entry into the basal cells of the epithelium. The virus manipulates signaling pathways to complete its life cycle, which depends on cellular differentiation. The virus expresses the oncoproteins E5, E6, and E7 to promote immune evasion, cell cycle progression, apoptosis inhibition, and viral replication. The least studied viral oncoprotein is E5 (16E5), which can regulate epithelial growth factor receptor (GFR) signaling pathways. GFRs such as transforming growth factor-beta receptor (TGFBR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), and keratinocyte growth factor receptor (KGFR) have essential roles in cell growth, differentiation, and proliferation. These receptors obtain their ligands from the microenvironment, and once activated, regulate cellular behavior in the epithelium. GFRs therefore represent valuable targets for the virus to establish and maintain a cellular environment supportive of infection. The ability of 16E5 to regulate proliferation and differentiation varies through the differentiating epithelium, making it necessary to adequately describe the association between 16E5 and GFRs. Here we summarize the regulation of GFR signaling pathways by 16E5, discuss the roles of stromal growth factors, and outline unresolved questions over cellular differentiation and proliferation during the HPV life cycle.

Relationship Between Human Papilloma Virus and Upper Gastrointestinal Cancers

The human papillomavirus (HPV) is an oncogenic DNA virus that is the most commonly transmitted sexually transmitted virus. There is substantial evidence that HPV is associated with different types of cancer. While the majority of studies have concentrated on urogenital system cancers and head and neck cancers, the relationship between HPV and gastrointestinal system cancers, particularly esophageal cancers, has also been the subject of investigation. Given that HPV is a disease that can be prevented through vaccination and treated with antiviral agents, identifying the types of cancers associated with the pathogen may inform the treatment of these cancers. This comprehensive review examines the relationship between HPV and cancers of the upper gastrointestinal tract, highlighting the oncogenic mechanisms of the virus and its reported prevalence. A deeper understanding of HPV's association with cancer is relevant to the further development of cancer therapies.

Unraveling the genetic mysteries of sarcopenia: A bioinformatics approach

Background As life expectancy increases and the global population ages, the incidence of sarcopenia is also increasing, highlighting the need for better diagnosis and treatment methods.ObjectiveTo study the genetic expression of sarcopenia using bioinformatics methods.MethodsA Weighted Gene Coexpression Network Analysis (WGCNA) was conducted to construct coexpression networks, along with protein-protein interaction networks. Diagnostic biomarker potential was evaluated using receiver operating characteristic curves. An analysis of Single-Sample Gene Set Enrichment Analysis (ssGSEA) was performed in order to determine the amount of immune cell infiltration. We analyzed Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways and Gene Ontology (GO) enrichment using the KEGG.ResultsWGCNA identified modules linked to bone metabolism, ssGSEA showed unique gene enrichment patterns, and 268 genes were found to be differentially expressed in sarcopenia. Fourteen co-expression modules related to bone metabolism were identified, with one showing a strong positive correlation. KEGG pathway analysis indicated downregulation of the renin-angiotensin system and Alzheimer's disease pathways. The differentially expressed genes were primarily involved in adipocyte differentiation.ConclusionThis study analyzes genetic changes and immune cell patterns in sarcopenia, providing insights into its causes and potential diagnostic markers for future research on treatments.

Bibliometric analysis: a study of the microenvironment in cervical cancer (2000-2024)

Objective

The incidence of cervical cancer has increased in recent years. The tumor microenvironment (TME) is the local biological environment involved in tumor occurrence and development. This study aimed to conduct a comprehensive analysis of the global research on the TME in cervical cancer (CC), providing a knowledge framework in this field from a holistic and systematic perspective based on a bibliometric analysis.

Methods

Studies focusing on the TME in cervical cancer were searched using the Web of Science Core Collection database. The annual output, cooperation, hotspots, research status, and development trends in this field were analyzed using bibliometric softwares (VOSviewer and CiteSpace).

Results

A total of 1,057 articles published between 2000 and 2024 were selected. The number of publications and citations has recently increased. Cooperation network analysis indicated that China holds the foremost position in research on the TME in cervical cancer with the highest volume of publications, thus exerting the greatest influence. Fudan University had the highest output. Frontiers in Oncology showed the highest degree of productivity in this field. Rofstad, Einar K. made the most article contributions and was the most co-cited author. Four clusters were obtained after a cluster analysis of the keywords: TME, cervical cancer, immunotherapy, and prognosis. Immunotherapy, human papillomavirus, and biomarkers were relatively recent keywords that attracted increasing attention from researchers.

Discussion

This bibliometric analysis provides a data-based and objective introduction to the TME of cervical cancer, and offers readers a valuable reference for future research.

Conclusions

Comprehensive research in this field was mainly distributed in the TME of cervical cancer through the analysis of keywords and documents. Sufficient evidence supports mechanism research and application exploration. Further research should explore new topics related to the TME of cervical cancer.

Therapeutic implications of endoplasmic reticulum stress gene CCL3 in cervical squamous cell carcinoma

This study investigated ERS-related gene expressions in CESC, identifying two molecular subtypes, P1 and P2, and constructing a precise prognostic model based on these subtypes. TCGA's whole-genome expression profiles were used to recognize these subtypes through the ConsensusClusterPlus method, further refining prognostic models with univariate and Lasso Cox regression analyses validated by the GSE39001 dataset. The study analyzed the expression distribution of ERS marker genes within T cell subgroups using scRNA-seq data (GSE168652), highlighting T cell diversity. The critical role of the CCL3 gene in prognostic models was examined explicitly in CD8 + T cells from healthy individuals and CESC patients. Elevated CCL3 levels were observed in patients' CD8 + T cells compared to healthy controls. Functional experiments involving CCL3 knockdown and overexpression in HeLa and SiHa CESC cell lines were conducted to investigate its impact on cell proliferation, migration, and invasion. These findings were subsequently validated in a nude mouse model. The results demonstrated that suppressing CCL3 inhibited cell proliferation, migration, and invasion significantly, while its overexpression promoted these processes. In the mouse model, CCL3 silencing reduced tumor growth and decreased Ki-67 labeling within the tumor tissues, indicating the therapeutic potential of targeting CCL3 in CESC treatment, possibly through CD8 + T cell regulation. This study contributes new prognostic assessment tools and personalized treatment options for CESC patients, paving the way for more targeted therapies in CESC by discovering the CCL3 gene, presenting significant clinical implications.

Roles of human papillomavirus in cancers: oncogenic mechanisms and clinical use

Human papillomaviruses, particularly high-risk human papillomaviruses, have been universally considered to be associated with the oncogenesis and progression of various cancers. The genome of human papillomaviruses is circular, double-stranded DNA that encodes early and late proteins. Each of the proteins is of crucial significance in infecting the epithelium of host cells persistently and supporting viral genome integrating into host cells. Notably, E6 and E7 proteins, classified as oncoproteins, trigger the incidence of cancers by fostering cell proliferation, hindering apoptosis, evading immune surveillance, promoting cell invasion, and disrupting the balance of cellular metabolism. Therefore, targeting human papillomaviruses and decoding molecular mechanisms by which human papillomaviruses drive carcinogenesis are of great necessity to better treat human papillomaviruses-related cancers. Human papillomaviruses have been applied clinically to different facets of human papillomavirus-related cancers, including prevention, screening, diagnosis, treatment, and prognosis. Several types of prophylactic vaccines have been publicly utilized worldwide and have greatly decreased the occurrence of human papillomavirus-related cancers, which have benefited numerous people. Although various therapeutic vaccines have been developed and tested clinically, none of them have been officially approved to date. Enhancing the efficacy of vaccines and searching for innovative technologies targeting human papillomaviruses remain critical challenges that warrant continuous research and attention in the future.

Adenosinergic Signalling in Cervical Cancer Microenvironment

Despite the emergence of the first human papillomavirus vaccine, the incidence of cervical cancer is still responsible for more than 350,000 deaths yearly. Over the past decade, ecto-5'-nucleotidase (CD73/5'-NT) and extracellular adenosine (ADO) signalling has been the subject of many investigations to target cancer progression. In general, the adenosinergic axis has been linked to tumourigenic effects. However, CD73 can play contradictory effects, probably dependent on the tumour type, tumour microenvironment and tumour stage, thus being in some circumstances, inversely related to tumour progression. We herein reviewed the pathophysiological function of CD73 in cervical cancer and performed in silico analysis of the main components of the adenosinergic signalling in human tissues of cervical cancer compared to non-tumour cervix tissue. Our data showed that the NT5E gene, that encoded CD73, is hypermethylated, leading to a decreased CD73 expression in cervical cancer cells compared to normal cells. Consequently, the high availability of ADO cytoplasmatic/extracellular leads to its conversion to AMP by ADK, culminating in global hypermethylation. Therefore, epigenetic modulation may reveal a new role for CD73 in cervical cancer.

Rapid-onset cancer

Human cancers are generally thought to develop over the course of decades. Such slow progression is well documented for a variety of cancers that we designate "slow-onset" cancers. "Rapid-onset" cancers, in contrast, can develop in a matter of months in humans or in as little as 9 days in mice. These cancers often develop under conditions that might be expected to accelerate cancer development: early development, immune deficiency, or viral infection. We will discuss rapid-onset cancers in the context of the "hallmarks of cancer" - properties cells must acquire in order to become malignant - focusing on how viruses are particularly well suited to causing rapid-onset cancer.

Transcriptomic Analysis of HPV-Positive Oesophageal Tissue Reveals Upregulation of Genes Linked to Cell Cycle and DNA Replication

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a prevalent sexually transmitted infection, implicated in various cancers, yet its influence in non-cancerous oesophageal tissue remains unclear. This study aims to investigate the gene expression changes associated with high-risk HPV (HR-HPV) in non-cancerous oesophageal tissue to elucidate potential early oncogenic mechanisms. Using RNA sequencing, we compared transcriptomic profiles of HPV-positive and HPV-negative non-cancerous oesophageal tissues. Differential gene expression analysis revealed significant upregulation of cell cycle and DNA replication pathways in HPV-positive samples, specifically involving key genes such as CCNA2, DSN1, and MCM10, which are known to regulate cellular proliferation and genomic stability. Additionally, kinase and transcription factor enrichment analyses highlighted HR-HPV-associated regulatory molecules, including E2F4 and CSNK2A1, suggesting HPV's role in modulating host cell cycle control. These findings support the hypothesis that HPV infection may initiate cellular alterations in oesophageal tissue, potentially predisposing it to malignancy. This study contributes to understanding HPV's impact in non-cancerous tissues and identifies possible biomarkers for early HPV-related cellular changes, offering insights into HPV-driven cancer development beyond traditionally associated sites.

Drugs and drug targets for the treatment of HPV-positive cervical cancer

Cervical cancer is primarily driven by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) strains and remains a significant global health challenge, particularly in low- and middle-income countries where late-stage diagnoses is common. While vaccination and screening programs have reduced incidence rates, the need for novel and more effacacious and cost-effective therapeutic options is therefore critical especially for advanced cervical cancer. This review highlights several key advances in the understanding of HPV-induced carcinogenesis and the development of therapeutic strategies over the past five years. Important areas of focus include the role of HPV oncoproteins E5, E6 and E7 in modulating signalling pathways, treatment strategies for precancerous lesions, the potential of natural compounds to target cervical cancer cells, and the emergence of immunotherapies, checkpoint inhibitors, antibody-drug conjugates, and novel drug combinations to treat cervical cancer. Additionally, lifestyle recommendations and the integration of natural supplements are discussed for their potential to enhance treatment efficacy and improve patient outcomes. The developments reported in this review underscore the evolving landscape of cervical cancer treatment and the need for continued research to validate and integrate these emerging therapies into clinical practice.

The potential role of HPV oncoproteins in the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway in cervical cancer: new perspectives on cervical cancer immunotherapy

Cervical cancer (CC) is a common malignant tumour of the female reproductive system that is highly harmful to women's health. The efficacy of traditional surgery, radiotherapy and chemotherapy is limited, especially for recurrent and metastatic CC. With continuous progress in diagnostic and treatment technology, immunotherapy has become a new approach for treating CC and has become a new therapy for recurrent and metastatic CC. However, immunotherapy is not effective for all patients with CC. Therefore, factors related to immunotherapy efficacy in CC patients have become the focus of researchers. High-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is an important factor that drives CC development and affects its progression and prognosis. Increasing attention has been given to the mechanism of the E5, E6 and E7 proteins, which are encoded by the HPV gene, in the occurrence and development of CC and their interaction with programmed cell death ligand-1/programmed cell death-1 (PD-L1/PD-1). Although some preliminary studies have been conducted on these topics, a comprehensive and systematic review of these topics is not available. This review comprehensively summarizes related articles from journals with impact factors greater than 3 and published in the past 5 years; it also reviews studies on the mechanism of HPV and CC, the mechanism of PD-L1/PD-1 axis regulation in CC, and the mechanism by which the interaction between HPV-related oncoproteins and the PD-L1/PD-1 pathway affects the development and prognosis of CC. This study provides theoretical support for the use of immunotherapies for CC, provides a basis for the selection of specific medications that target different HPV-related proteins, and provides a new perspective for the discovery of new immunotherapy targets for CC.

Prediction of Human Papillomavirus-Host Oncoprotein Interactions Using Deep Learning

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes disease through complex interactions between viral and host proteins, with the PI3K signaling pathway playing a key role. Proteins like AKT, IQGAP1, and MMP16 are involved in HPV-related cancer development. Traditional methods for studying protein-protein interactions (PPIs) are labor-intensive and time-consuming. Computational models are becoming more popular as they are less labor-intensive and often more efficient. This study aimed to develop a deep learning model to predict interactions between HPV and host proteins.

Method

To achieve this, available HPV and host protein interaction data was retrieved from the protocol of Eckhardt et al and used to train a Recurrent Neural Network algorithm. Training of the model was performed on the SPYDER (scientific python development environment) platform using python libraries; Scikit-learn, Pandas, NumPy, and TensorFlow. The data was split into training, validation, and testing sets in the ratio 7:1:2, respectively. After the training and validation, the model was then used to predict the possible interactions between HPV 31 and 18 E6 and E7, and host oncoproteins AKT, IQGAP1 and MMP16.

Results

The model showed good performance, with an MCC score of 0.7937 and all other metrics above 88%. The model predicted an interaction between E6 and E7 of both HPV types with AKT, while only HPV31 E7 was shown to interact with IQGAP1 and MMP16 with confidence scores of 0.9638 and 0.5793, respectively.

Conclusion

The current model strongly predicted HPVs E6 and E7 interactions with PI3K pathway, and the viral proteins may be involved in AKT activation, driving HPV-associated cancers. This model supports the robust prediction of interactomes for experimental validation.

Upregulation of HPV16E1 and E7 expression and FOXO3a mRNA downregulation in high-grade cervical neoplasia

Background

Cervical cancer remains a significant global health concern, ranking as the fourth most prevalent cancer among women worldwide. Human papillomaviruses (HPV) transcribe many genes that might be responsible for cervical cancer development. This study aims to investigate the correlation between the expression of HPV16 early genes and the mRNA expression of human FOXO3a, a tumor suppressor gene, in association with various stages of cervical precancerous lesions.

Methods

Eighty-five positive HPV16 DNA cervical swab samples were recruited and categorized based on cytology stages, i.e., negative for intraepithelial lesion or malignancy (NILM), atypical squamous cells of undetermined significance (ASC-US), low-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (LSIL), atypical squamous cell cannot exclude HSIL (ASC-H), high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL). RT-qPCR was performed to amplify HPV16E1, E4, E6, E6*I, E7, and human FOXO3a mRNA expression in all samples. The relative expression of those genes was calculated using GAPDH as a control. Detection of FOXO3a mRNA expression in the cervical cancer cell line by RT-qPCR and meta-analysis of FOXO3a expression using the RNA-Seq dataset by GEPIA2 were analyzed to support the conclusions.

Results

Among the cervical samples, HPV16E1 and E7 were significantly increased expression correlating to disease severity. HPV16E4 mRNA expression was 100% detected in all LSIL samples, with a significant increase observed from normal to LSIL stages. Conversely, FOXO3a mRNA expression decreased with disease severity, and the lowest expression was observed in HSIL/squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) samples. In addition, similar results of FOXO3a downregulation were also found in the cervical cancer cell line and RNA-Seq dataset of cervical cancer samples.

Conclusion

HPV16 early mRNA levels, including E1 and E7, increase during cancer progression, and downregulation of FOXO3a mRNA is a characteristic of cervical cancer cells and HSIL/SCC. Additionally, HPV16E4 mRNA expression was consistently detected in all LSIL samples, suggesting the presence of active viral replication. These findings might lead to further investigation into the interplay between HPV gene expression and host cell factors for targeted therapeutic strategies in cervical cancer management.

The Natural History of Cervical Cancer and the Case for MicroRNAs: Is Human Papillomavirus Infection the Whole Story?

MicroRNAs (miRNAs) are small non-coding RNAs (ncRNAs) that negatively regulate gene expression. MiRNAs regulate fundamental biological processes and have significant roles in several pathologies, including cancer. Cervical cancer is the best-known example of a widespread human malignancy with a demonstrated viral etiology. Infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) has been shown to be a causative factor for cervical carcinogenesis. Despite the occurrence of prophylactic vaccines, highly sensitive HPV diagnostics, and innovative new therapies, cervical cancer remains a main cause of death in developing countries. The relationship between hrHPV infection and cervical cancer depends on the integration of viral DNA to the host genome, disrupting the viral regulator E2 and the continuous production of the viral E6 and E7 proteins, which are necessary to acquire and maintain a transformed phenotype but insufficient for malignant cervical carcinogenesis. Lately, miRNAs, the tumor microenvironment, and immune evasion have been found to be major players in cervical carcinogenesis after hrHPV infection. Many miRNAs have been widely reported as deregulated in cervical cancer. Here, the relevance of miRNA in HPV-mediated transformation is critically reviewed in the context of the natural history of hrHPV infection and cervical cancer.

Molecular epidemiology of human papillomavirus variants in cervical cancer in India

Background & objectives Cervical cancer (CC) has been documented as the fourth most common cancer worldwide. Persistent infections with high-risk human papillomavirus (hr-HPV) have been suggested in the development of CC. Although prophylactic vaccines are available for the prevention of prevalent hr-HPV types, intra-type variations exist within a particular HPV type that has varying oncogenic potential as well as the mechanism of pathogenicity and varying neutralization by antibodies. Therefore, we carried out a systematic review to determine the distribution of HPV intra-typic variations in different geographical locations of India and their reported implications. Methods Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analysis (PRISMA) guidelines were followed to retrieve relevant articles from the standard databases using appropriate keywords. Consequently, 17 articles were included in the current review after screening based on inclusion and exclusion criteria. Results The majority of articles included in this review reported variations within the HPV16 E6 gene, followed by the L1 and E7 genes. Analysis of available data indicated the differential regional distribution of some variations. These variations have also been reported to impact the biological functions of various viral proteins. Interpretation & conclusions The distribution of lineages varied with the different genomic regions sequenced. Additionally, there were certain unique and common variations in the HPV genome with respect to geographical regions. Hence, we suggest the identification of region-specific variations for the development of diagnostic and prognostic interventions.

The Role of the Cytoskeletal Regulatory Protein, Mammalian Enabling Protein (Mena), in Invasion and Metastasis of HPV16-Related Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma

BACKGROUND

The objective of this study was to investigate the effect of mammalian-enabled protein (Mena) on invasion and metastasis of HPV16-related oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and the underlying mechanism.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

The Mena gene expression profile of HPV-related OSCC was analyzed from the TCGA, GEO and TIMER databases. Immunohistochemistry was performed to study Mena, and the expression of invasion and metastasis-related markers and their clinicopathological characteristics. The role of Mena in the biological behavior of OSCC cell lines was assessed through both non-transfected and stably transfected models, analyzing EMT-related markers in vitro. The effect of Mena on HPV16-related OSCC metastasis through immunodeficient mouse model in vivo.

RESULTS

Mena expression was significantly decreased in HPV16-positive OSCC, and Mena expression in HPV16-negative OSCC was related with lymphatic metastasis and TNM stages, and E-cadherin, vimentin and MMP-2, but it was not statistically significant in HPV16-positive OSCC. Increased Mena expression was significantly correlated with a poor overall survival and disease-free survival in an HPV16-negative OSCC patient. Mena plays a vital role in promoting OSCC cell migration, invasion and metastasis.

CONCLUSIONS

Mena promotes OSCC invasion and metastasis in HPV-negative OSCC by activating the EMT process. However, Mena expression in OSCC infected with HPV16 is inhibited, thus suppressing its invasion and metastasis ability.

Viruses in the female lower reproductive tract: a systematic descriptive review of metagenomic investigations

The lower female reproductive tract (FRT) hosts a complex microbial environment, including eukaryotic and prokaryotic viruses (the virome), whose roles in health and disease are not fully understood. This review consolidates findings on FRT virome composition, revealing the presence of various viral families and noting significant gaps in knowledge. Understanding interactions between the virome, microbiome, and immune system will provide novel insights for preventing and managing lower genital tract disorders.

Human Papillomavirus-Related Cancer Vaccine Strategies

BACKGROUND

Human papillomavirus (HPV) persistent infection is a major pathogenic factor for HPV-related cancers, such as cervical cancer (CC), vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer, anal cancer, penile cancer, and head and neck cancer (HNC). Since the introduction of the world's first prophylactic HPV vaccine, there has been a decline in the incidence of HPV infections and associated cancers. This article reviews the latest literature on the research progress, efficacy, and safety of HPV vaccines for these cancers, providing a reference for HPV vaccination strategy.

METHODS

By utilizing databases such as PubMed, Google Scholar, CNKI, and Wanfang, we conducted a literature search on research papers related to HPV vaccines from 2014 to 2024, employing keywords such as "HPV", "HPV vaccine", "CC", "vaginal cancer", "vulvar cancer", "anal cancer", "penile cancer" and "HNC". Additionally, we reviewed the latest information available on official websites, including the World Health Organization (WHO). Based on the quality and relevance of the papers, we selected over 100 of the most representative articles for further summarization and analysis.

RESULTS

Vaccination against HPV can effectively block the transmission of the virus and prevent HPV-related cancers. Current studies have confirmed the efficacy and safety of prophylactic HPV vaccination. However, numerous challenges remain. The global vaccination rate for preventive vaccines remains low, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Nonetheless, in the future, we can enhance the accessibility, affordability, and coverage of HPV vaccines by expanding the indications of already licensed vaccines, continuously developing new vaccines.

CONCLUSIONS

The HPV vaccine is an extremely effective measure for the prevention and treatment of HPV-related cancers. Although there are many challenges in expanding the coverage of the HPV vaccine. It is believed that in the not-too-distant future, both prophylactic and therapeutic HPV vaccines will achieve commendable results.

Prognostic Prediction for Recurrent/Residual CIN in HSIL Patients After Conization: An Updated Retrospective Study Based on Ambulatory Surgery

Background

There are currently few prognostic models for conization in patients with high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesion (HSIL) because it is a rapid procedure that typically collects less case information. The present study aimed to establish a rapid/accurate postoperative prognostic assessment model for these patients.

Methods

This study included 631 nonpregnant participants with HSIL confirmed by histopathology from January 2015 to January 2018. The recurrent/residual cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) were divided into residual CIN, simple recurrent CIN and recurrent CIN accompanied with CIN progression. The recurrence/residual-free survival (RFS) time was defined as the time span from the time of surgery (baseline) until the first lesion of CIN was detected or the 1-/3-/5-year follow-up endpoint was reached.

Results

After LASSO regression selection, the higher platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) (OR = 1.006, p = 0.002), positive margin status (OR = 2.451, p = 0.021), HPV-16 (OR = 4.414, p < 0.001), -18 (OR = 3.040, p = 0.009), -56 (OR = 10.715, p=0.021), and non-HR-HPV (OR = 2.487, p = 0.028) infection showed significant difference in the Logistic model. And HPV-16 infection (OR = 6.159, p = 0.001) could promote recurrent CIN accompanied with CIN progression. In multivariate Cox regression models, the higher PLR (HR = 1.005/1.005/1.005, p = 0.020/0.002/0.003) and HPV-16 infection (HR = 2.758/2.836/2.674, p < 0.001) showed statistical difference during 1-/3-/5-year follow-up. While gland invasion (p = 0.081), margin status (p = 0.075) and HPV infection genotype (p = 0.150) did not showed statistical difference in multivariate Cox regression models based on LASSO regression. And gland invasion (p = 0.251/0.686) and HPV-58 infection (p = 0.148/0.813) also showed no statistical difference in optimized Logistic regression models.

Conclusion

HPV-16, -18, -56 and non-HR-HPV infection status can be considered as indicators for recurrent CIN during the 5-year follow-up, especially for HPV-16 infection, which also lead to a CIN recurrence accompanied with disease progression. And the preoperative PLR level, gland invasion, positive margin may be predictors for recurrent/residual CIN during 1-, 3- and 5-year follow-up.

ZNF281 Facilitates the Invasion of Cervical Cancer Cell Both In Vivo and In Vitro †

Background: Cervical cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women worldwide. The zinc finger transcription factor 281 (ZNF281)/ZBP-99 protein specifically binds to GC-rich DNA sequences and regulates gene expression, and it has been shown to promote tumor progression. In this study, we aim to investigate the function and molecular mechanism of ZNF281 in uterine cervical carcinoma. Methods: We conducted immunohistochemistry and Western blot assays to determine the expression of ZNF281 in eight human cervical cancer tissues. And, xenograft experiments involving the injection of HeLa cells into nude mice was used to determine the function of ZNF281 on proliferation. Transwell assays were used to detect the migration and invasion of HeLa cells after indicated that ZNF281 overexpression. Results: Our results indicated that ZNF281 protein levels were higher in cervical cancer tissues compared to normal cervical tissues. Additionally, ZNF281 was expressed in human cervical carcinoma cell lines, including HeLa, SiHa, C-33 A, CaSki, and HT-3, and is localized in both the cell nucleus and cytoplasm. ZNF281 overexpression did not influence HeLa cell proliferation or tumor size in situ. Moreover, nude mice injected with ZNF281-overexpressing cell lines developed more tumor lesions in the lungs compared to those injected with control cell lines. Conclusions: These findings suggest that ZNF281 is associated with tumor metastasis without affecting cell proliferation, both in vivo and in vitro.

Signaling pathways in HPV-induced cervical cancer: Exploring the therapeutic promise of RNA modulation

Cervical cancer, originating from the epithelial tissue of the uterine cervix, constitutes the most commonly diagnosed malignancy among women worldwide. The predominant etiological factor underpinning cervical carcinogenesis is persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) genotypes, notably HPV-16 and HPV-18. Oncoproteins encoded by high-risk HPV interfere with multiple essential cellular signaling cascades. Specifically, E5, E6, and E7 proteins disrupt the signaling pathways like p53, retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (pRB), The phosphoinositide 3 kinase (PI3K)/Akt/mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), epidermal growth factor receptor (EGFR), mitogen-activated protein kinases (MAPK)/extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK), and Wnt/β-catenin, promoting HPV-mediated carcinogenesis. This dysregulation disrupts cell cycle control, apoptosis, and metastasis through modulation of microRNAs (miRNA) and key cellular processes. The novel therapeutic interventions for HPV prevention and detection are fundamental to patient management. RNA-based treatment modalities offer the potential for manipulating critical pathways involved in cervical carcinogenesis. RNA therapeutics offer novel approaches to drug development by targeting intracellular genetic elements inaccessible to conventional modalities. Additional advantages include rapid design, synthesis, and a reduced genotoxic profile compared to DNA-based therapies. Despite beneficial attributes, system stability and efficient delivery remain critical parameters. This study assessed the intricate relationship between HPV, cervical cancer, and various signaling pathways. The study explores miRNAs' diagnostic and therapeutic potential, mall interfering RNAs (siRNAs), and long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs)in cervical cancer management. The review highlights the prospect of RNA-targeted therapies to modulate specific cancer signaling pathways. This approach offers a novel strategy for cervical cancer treatment through precise regulation of cancer signaling. Future research should concentrate on developing RNA-targeted interventions to improve cervical cancer treatment outcomes through increased therapeutic efficacy and specificity.

Targeting glucose metabolism for HPV-associated cervical cancer: A sweet poison

More than 99 % of precancerous cervical lesions are associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with HPV types 16 and 18 (especially type 16) found in over 70 % of cervical cancer cases globally. The growth of HPV-positive cervical cancer depends on the sustained expression of the viral oncogenes E6 and E7, which are key factors in maintaining the malignant phenotype of HPV-positive tumor cells. E6 and E7 oncoproteins can cause the degradation of the tumor suppressor gene p53 and the inactivation of pRb, respectively, thereby inducing carcinogenesis. However, the inhibition of p53 and pRb cannot fully explain the oncogenic mechanism of cervical cancer. Although the development of the HPV vaccine has controlled the incidence of HPV infection, its application and widespread adoption remain limited. In addition, many developing countries cannot afford the cost of vaccines. More importantly, the vaccine only prevents HPV infection and does not provide an effective treatment for patients who are already infected or have cervical cancer. Therefore, HPV-related diseases, especially cervical cancer, remain a serious challenge. This article reviews the role of glucose metabolism changes and key molecular events in HPV-induced cervical cancer, summarizes potential targets for the treatment of cervical cancer, and provides strategies for future clinical treatment. It also offers a theoretical basis for research into cervical cancer and other HPV-related tumors. Furthermore, we discuss potential treatments for HPV-associated cervical cancer through targeted metabolic pathways and analyze the risks and challenges of current targeted glucose metabolism therapies for cervical cancer.

Human Papillomavirus as Non-Traditional Cardiovascular Risk Factor: Fact or Fiction? Part 1

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common sexually transmitted infection in the United States and worldwide, with more than 42 million Americans infected with types of HPV that are known to cause disease. Although the link between HPV and the development of a variety of cancers has been strongly established, recent literature has demonstrated a potential association between HPV and increased risk of cardiovascular disease. Nevertheless, despite plausible mechanisms for the development of cardiovascular disease with HPV infection, a causative relationship has yet to be firmly established, in part due to potential confounding risk factors between the two. In this 2-part series, we discuss the emerging relationship between HPV and cardiovascular disease. In part 1, we focus on the pathophysiology of HPV infection and potential mechanisms for the development of cardiovascular disease.

Alternative splicing in the genome of HPV and its regulation

Persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is the main cause of cervical cancer. These chronic infections are characterized by high expression of the HPV E6 and E7 oncogenes and the absence of the L1 and L2 capsid proteins. The regulation of HPV gene expression plays a crucial role in both the viral life cycle and rare oncogenic events. Alternative splicing of HPV mRNA is a key mechanism in post-transcriptional regulation. Through alternative splicing, HPV mRNA is diversified into various splice isoforms with distinct coding potentials, encoding multiple proteins and influencing the expression of HPV genes. The spliced mRNAs derived from a donor splicing site within the E6 ORF and one of the different acceptor sites located in the early mRNA contain E6 truncated mRNAs, named E6*. E6* is one of the extensively studied splicing isoforms. However, the role of E6* proteins in cancer progression remains controversial. Here, we reviewed and compared the alternative splicing events occurring in the genomes of HR-HPV and LR-HPV. Recently, new HPV alternative splicing regulatory proteins have been continuously discovered, and we have updated the regulation of HPV alternative splicing. In addition, we summarized the functions of known splice isoforms from three aspects: anti-tumorigenic, tumorigenic, and other cancer-related functions, including not only E6*, but also E6^E7, E8^E2, and so on. Comprehending their contributions to cancer development enhances insights into the carcinogenic mechanisms of HPV and explores the potential utility of alternative splicing in the diagnosis and treatment of cervical cancer.

HPV16 E6-induced M2 macrophage polarization in the cervical microenvironment via exosomal miR-204-5p

The persistent infection of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) and the progression of cervical cancer necessitate the involvement of microenvironmental immunity. As cervical lesions advance, there is an observed increase in the infiltration of type 2 (M2) macrophages. However, the precise mechanism driving this increased infiltration of M2 macrophages remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the role of exosomes in polarising M2 macrophages in cervical lesions associated with HPV E6. Through the analysis of bioinformatics data and clinical specimens, we discovered a positive correlation between HPV E6/E7 mRNA copy number and the level of M2 macrophage infiltration. Exosomes derived from HPV E6 overexpressed (HPV E6+) cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CESC) cells were found to induce the polarisation of macrophages towards M2 type. Specifically, miR-204-5p, enriched in HPV E6 + CESC exosomes, was transported into macrophages and triggered M2 macrophage polarisation by inhibiting JAK2. The clinical relevance of exosomal miR-204-5p in the progression of cervical lesions was validated through serum samples from 35 cases. Exosomal miR-204-5p emerges as a critical factor influencing M2 macrophage polarisation and is correlated with the severity of cervical lesions. Consequently, miR-204-5p could be used as a potential treatment and a candidate biomarker for cervical lesions.

Comparative Molecular Docking of Apigenin and Luteolin versus Conventional Ligands for TP-53, pRb, APOBEC3H, and HPV-16 E6: Potential Clinical Applications in Preventing Gynecological Malignancies

This study presents a comparative analysis of molecular docking data, focusing on the binding interactions of the natural compounds apigenin and luteolin with the proteins TP-53, pRb, and APOBEC, in comparison to conventional pharmacological ligands. Advanced bioinformatics techniques were employed to evaluate and contrast binding energies, showing that apigenin and luteolin demonstrate significantly higher affinities for TP-53, pRb, and APOBEC, with binding energies of -6.9 kcal/mol and -6.6 kcal/mol, respectively. These values suggest strong potential for therapeutic intervention against HPV-16. Conventional ligands, by comparison, exhibited lower affinities, with energies ranging from -4.5 to -5.5 kcal/mol. Additionally, protein-protein docking simulations were performed to assess the interaction between HPV-16 E6 oncoprotein and tumor suppressors TP-53 and pRb, which revealed high binding energies around -976.7 kcal/mol, indicative of their complex interaction. A conversion formula was applied to translate these protein-protein interaction energies to a comparable scale for non-protein interactions, further underscoring the superior binding potential of apigenin and luteolin. These findings highlight the therapeutic promise of these natural compounds in preventing HPV-16-induced oncogenesis, warranting further experimental validation for clinical applications.

Development of human papillomavirus and its detection methods (Review)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection plays an important role in cervical cancer. HPV is classified within the Papillomaviridae family and is a non-enveloped, small DNA virus. HPV infection can be classified into two distinct scenarios: i) With or without integration into the host chromosomes. Detection of its infection can be useful in the study of cervical lesions. In the present review, the structural and functional features of HPV, HPV typing, infection and transmission mode, the risk factors for cervical susceptibility to infection and HPV detection methods are described in detail. The development of HPV detection methods may have far-reaching significance in the prevention and treatment of cervical disease. This review summarizes the advantages and limitations of each HPV detection method.

The role and impact of viruses on cancer development

This review focuses on three major aspects of oncoviruses' role in cancer development. To begin, we discuss their geographic distribution, revealing that seven oncoviruses cause 20% of all human cancers worldwide. Second, we investigate the primary carcinogenic mechanisms, looking at how these oncogenic viruses can induce cellular transformation, angiogenesis, and local and systemic inflammation. Finally, we investigate the possibility of SARS-CoV-2 infection reactivating latent oncoviruses, which could increase the risk of further disease. The development of oncovirus vaccines holds great promise for reducing cancer burden. Many unanswered questions about the host and environmental cofactors that contribute to cancer development and prevention remain, which ongoing research is attempting to address.

Therapeutic Strategies in Advanced Cervical Cancer Detection, Prevention and Treatment

Cervical cancer is ranked the fourth most common cause of cancer related deaths amongst women. The situation is particularly dire in low to lower middle-income countries. It continues to affect these countries due to poor vaccine coverage and screening. Cervical cancer is mostly detected in the advanced stages leading to poor outcomes. This review focuses on the progress made to date to improve early detection and targeted therapy using both circulating RNA. Vaccine has played a major role in cervical cancer control in vaccinated young woman in mainly developed countries yet in low-income countries with challenges of 3 dose vaccination affordability, cervical cancer continues to be the second most deadly amongst women. In this review, we show the progress made in reducing cervical cancer using vaccination that in combination with other treatments that might improve survival in cervical cancer. We further show with both miRNA and siRNA that targeted therapy and specific markers might be ideal for early detection of cervical cancer in low-income countries. These markers are either upregulated or down regulated in cancer providing clue to the stage of the cancer.

Screening and identification of susceptibility genes for cervical cancer via bioinformatics analysis and the construction of an mitophagy-related genes diagnostic model

PURPOSE

This study aims to utilize bioinformatics methods to systematically screen and identify susceptibility genes for cervical cancer, as well as to construct and validate an mitophagy-related genes (MRGs) diagnostic model. The objective is to increase the understanding of the disease's pathogenesis and improve early diagnosis and treatment.

METHOD

We initially collected a large amount of genomic data, including gene expression profile and single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) data, from the control group and Cervical cancer (CC) patients. Through bioinformatics analysis, which employs methods such as differential gene expression analysis and pathway enrichment analysis, we identified a set of candidate susceptibility genes associated with cervical cancer.

RESULTS

MRGs were extracted from single-cell RNA sequencing data, and a network graph was constructed on the basis of intercellular interaction data. Furthermore, using machine learning algorithms, we constructed a clinical prognostic model and validated and optimized it via extensive clinical data. Through bioinformatics analysis, we successfully identified a group of genes whose expression significantly differed during the development of CC and revealed the biological pathways in which these genes are involved. Moreover, our constructed clinical prognostic model demonstrated excellent performance in the validation phase, accurately predicting the clinical prognosis of patients.

CONCLUSION

This study delves into the susceptibility genes of cervical cancer through bioinformatics approaches and successfully builds a reliable clinical prognostic model. This study not only helps uncover potential pathogenic mechanisms of cervical cancer but also provides new directions for early diagnosis and treatment of the disease.

Polymorphisms in miRNA Genes Targeting the AMPK Signaling Pathway are Associated with Cervical Cancer Susceptibility in a Han Chinese Population

Purpose

Cervical cancer (CC) poses a significant threat to women's health worldwide, and multiple signaling pathways have been confirmed to be involved in its development. The AMPK signaling pathway plays a central role in maintaining energy homeostasis, and its dysregulation is closely associated with the occurrence of CC. Changes in microRNA (miRNA) expression levels might be related to the AMPK signaling pathway. Single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) can affect the function of miRNA and result in the development of CC. To investigate the association between the SNPs of AMPK pathway-associated miRNAs and CC in a Han Chinese population, we selected eight miRNA genes located in the AMPK pathway and analyzed nine SNP loci within these genes to explore whether they are associated with genetic susceptibility to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) and CC.

Methods

A total of 2,220 subjects were included in this study, including 928 healthy controls, 421 CIN patients, and 871 CC patients. Nine candidate SNPs (rs895819 in miR-27a, rs10061133 in miR-449b, rs41291179 in miR-216a, rs76481776 in miR-182, rs10406069 in miR-5196, rs12803915 and rs550894 in miR-612, rs66683138 in miR-3622b, and rs2620381 in miR-627) were genotyped using the TaqMan method.

Results

The results showed significant differences in the allele distribution of rs41291179 and rs12803915 between the control group and the CIN group, as well as between the control group and the CC group (all P values < 0.005). The A allele of rs41291179 and the G allele of rs12803915 were associated with decreased risk of CIN (OR = 0.05, 95% CI: 0.01-0.39; OR = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.49-0.76) and CC (OR = 0.08, 95% CI: 0.01-0.66; OR = 0.71, 95% CI: 0.59-0.86), respectively.

Conclusion

Our results suggest that polymorphisms in miRNA genes of the AMPK signaling pathway are associated with the development of CC.