Gene polymorphisms associated with immunosuppression and their implications in the onset of cervical cancer

The immune system plays a crucial role in determining the resolution or development of cervical pre-malignant lesions that culminate in cervical cancer (CC). A microenvironment with low inflammatory patterns is often associated with a worse prognosis.

To evaluate polymorphisms rs3087465 in the TGFBR2 and rs3761548 in the FOXP3 genes, as well as sociodemographic, reproductive, and sexual behavior data which may be associated with CC development.

In this cross-sectional case-control study conducted in the northern region of Paraná, Brazil, 134 women (41 cervical cancer patients and 93 controls) were recruited from public health services. DNA samples were extracted from cervical cells, peripheral blood, and tumor tissues and subjected to PCR for confirmation of HPV presence and subsequent genotyping of TGFBR2 (rs3087465) and FOXP3 (rs3761548) polymorphisms.

Women with limited HPV knowledge, low income, and infrequent preventive exams were at higher risk of CC. Smoking and high parity were also associated with increased risk. Notably, TGFBR2 rs3087465 AG/GG genotypes were initially associated with increased risk of CC development. However, these associations were attenuated after adjusting for confounding variables.

These findings suggest that understanding genetic, environmental, and behavioral factors is essential for the prevention and effective treatment of CC.