Analysis of molecular marker expression in cutaneous lesions and cervical carcinoma associated with HPV infection

J Med Life. 2024 Jun;17(6):634-638. doi: 10.25122/jml-2023-0329.

Abstract

The study sought to systematically compare the expression of molecular markers in benign cutaneous lesions and squamous cell cervical carcinoma associated with HPV infection to better understand the pathophysiological mechanisms involved in HPV-related lesions and their progression to malignancy. We included 200 patients recruited from a gynecological clinic divided into two groups: 100 patients with positive HPV tests presenting with cutaneous lesions and 100 patients diagnosed with squamous cell cervical carcinoma and testing positive for HPV. The participants were selected to ensure diverse ethnic and demographic representation. The study utilized different statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests to assess associations between categorical variables and logistic regression to evaluate factors influencing lesion progression and compare marker expressions across different lesion types. The results indicated significant differences in the expression of specific molecular markers between cutaneous lesions and cervical carcinomas, highlighting distinct molecular pathways involved in HPV-related lesion development. Notably, markers such as p16, p53, and E-cadherin showed varying expression, suggesting their potential role in distinguishing between benign and malignant lesions. The findings emphasize the significance of molecular marker profiling in improving diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for HPV-related lesions. The differential expression of molecular markers can offer valuable insights into the pathogenesis of HPV-induced lesions and help develop targeted interventions to prevent malignant transformation. Further research is necessary to validate these markers in larger cohorts and diverse populations.

Keywords: HPV infection; malignant transformation; molecular markers.

MeSH terms

  • Adult
  • Biomarkers, Tumor* / metabolism
  • Cadherins / metabolism
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / pathology
  • Carcinoma, Squamous Cell / virology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Middle Aged
  • Papillomaviridae
  • Papillomavirus Infections* / complications
  • Skin Neoplasms / pathology
  • Skin Neoplasms / virology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / pathology
  • Uterine Cervical Neoplasms* / virology

Substances

  • Biomarkers, Tumor
  • Cadherins