Profile of MeltPro® HPV test for human papillomavirus genotyping and cervical precancer screening

Introduction: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the most common viral infection of the reproductive tract. The persistent infection of high-risk HPV (hrHPV) is associated with cervical cancer. There exists a trend from no hrHPV genotyping, to partial and expanded hrHPV genotyping for the primary screening of cervical precancer. Areas covered: The authors first review HPV assays for screening use on the market. Then, they describe and compare the Zeesan MeltPro® HPV genotyping assay, a semi-automated full hrHPV genotyping assay working on a real-time PCR platform. Based on multicolor melting curve analysis, this assay allows individual identification of 14 hrHPV genotypes in a single reaction. Expert opinion: MeltPro® HPV genotyping assay provides a flexible choice for both high- and low-throughput screening. It is robust in diverse settings ranging from remote and underdeveloped areas to large screening centers. Extra merits such as low cost and ease-of-use would facilitate its implementation in cervical precancer screening, control, and prevention.