Carcinogenesis Associated with Human Papillomavirus Infection. Mechanisms and Potential for Immunotherapy

Area of Science:

• Oncology
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Human papillomavirus (HPV) is linked to approximately 5% of all cancers, including 70% of cervical cancers caused by high-risk genotypes 16 and 18.
• HPV infection, primarily sexually transmitted, can lead to persistent infections and malignant transformation through E6 and E7 oncoproteins.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the mechanisms of HPV-induced carcinogenesis.
• To highlight the limitations of current prophylactic HPV vaccines.
• To emphasize the need for therapeutic HPV vaccines.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of HPV infection, pathogenesis, and vaccine efficacy.
• Analysis of the role of HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins in cellular transformation.
• Evaluation of current prophylactic vaccine strategies and their limitations.

Main Results:

• HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins disrupt cell cycle control, induce genomic instability, and promote malignant transformation.
• HPV integration into host DNA upregulates E6/E7, contributing to cancer development.
• Prophylactic HPV vaccines prevent initial infection but do not clear existing infections or treat established neoplasias.

Conclusions:

• Chronic HPV infections and associated cancers necessitate the development of novel therapeutic strategies.
• Therapeutic HPV vaccines are crucial for treating persistent infections and HPV-driven malignancies.