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Hypomethylation in cervical tissue: is there a correlation with folate status?
B M Fowler1, A R Giuliano, C Piyathilake
1Arizona Cancer Center, University Medical Center, University of Arizona, Tucson 85716, USA.
Summary
DNA hypomethylation is linked to cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) progression. Folate levels in cervical tissue and serum correlate with DNA hypomethylation, suggesting a role in cervical carcinogenesis.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Epigenetics
- Nutritional Science
Background:
- DNA hypomethylation has been previously associated with cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) grade.
- Understanding the role of folate in this association is crucial for cervical cancer prevention strategies.
Purpose of the Study:
- To further describe the relationship between DNA hypomethylation and CIN.
- To investigate the role of folate in the observed association of DNA hypomethylation and CIN.
Main Methods:
- Eighty-three patients with abnormal Pap smear results underwent colposcopy and biopsy.
- DNA hypomethylation was assessed using [3H]methyl-S-adenosylmethionine and Sss 1 methylase.
- Cervical tissue and serum folate levels were measured using a microbiological assay.
Main Results:
- DNA hypomethylation showed significant differences between select histological levels of CIN.
- Both cervical tissue and serum folate levels were significantly correlated with DNA methylation levels.
- Smoking, hormonal contraceptive use, parity, and HPV infection were not associated with DNA hypomethylation or folate status.
Conclusions:
- DNA hypomethylation is an early event in cervical carcinogenesis.
- Folate levels are significantly related to DNA hypomethylation.
- Further investigation of specific gene methylation is required to confirm the role of folate.