Investigation on Spontaneous Abortion and Human Papillomavirus Infection

Area of Science:

• Reproductive Medicine
• Virology
• Immunology

Background:

• Viral infections are potential risk factors for spontaneous abortion (SA).
• Previous studies reported conflicting findings on the association between Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and SA.
• Understanding the role of HPV in SA is crucial for reproductive health.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the presence and load of HPV DNA in chorionic villi and peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from women with SA compared to controls.
• To determine the prevalence of anti-HPV16 IgG antibodies in women with SA and controls.
• To clarify the potential role of HPV infection in the etiology of spontaneous abortion.

Main Methods:

• Qualitative PCR and quantitative droplet digital PCR (ddPCR) were used to detect HPV DNA in chorionic villi and PBMCs.
• Real-time PCR was employed for viral genotyping in HPV-positive samples.
• Indirect ELISA assays were used to measure serum IgG antibodies against HPV16.

Main Results:

• No HPV DNA was detected in any DNA samples from SA subjects (0/80).
• HPV DNA was detected in 2.5% of control (VI) samples, with HPV45 genotype identified in two cases.
• HPV DNA was found in 3.7% of SA chorionic tissues and 5% of VI chorionic tissues, with no significant difference in viral load.
• All PBMC samples tested negative for HPV DNA.
• Serum anti-HPV16 IgG antibodies were present in 37.5% of SA and 30% of VI women, with no significant difference.

Conclusions:

• HPV DNA detection in chorionic villi is a rare event.
• The study found no significant association between HPV infection and spontaneous abortion.
• Current evidence suggests HPV likely has no significant role in the pathogenesis of spontaneous abortion.