TP53 gene expression, codon 72 polymorphism and human papillomavirus DNA associated with pterygium

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Molecular Biology
• Virology

Background:

• Pterygium is a vision-threatening eye condition with unknown causes.
• Previous research suggests UV exposure, p53 protein abnormalities, and human papillomavirus (HPV) infection as potential risk factors, but findings are inconclusive.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the relationship between pterygium development and p53 protein expression, p53 gene codon 72 polymorphism, and HPV DNA infection.

Main Methods:

• Pterygial tissue samples from 36 patients and conjunctival samples from 21 controls were analyzed.
• P53 protein expression was assessed using immunohistochemistry (DO-7 antibody).
• P53 gene codon 72 polymorphism and HPV DNA presence were determined via polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

Main Results:

• Abnormal p53 expression was found in 14 of 36 pterygium samples.
• Significant differences in p53 codon 72 polymorphism (proline/arginine alleles) were observed between patients and controls.
• HPV DNA was detected in 21 pterygium patients (types 1, 2, or both) and 2 controls (type 16).

Conclusions:

• Abnormal p53 expression, p53 codon 72 polymorphisms, and HPV DNA are suggested as necessary co-factors for pterygium development.
• This study provides evidence for a multifactorial etiology of pterygium involving genetic and viral factors.