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MCED - DNA Methylation-Based Liquid Biopsy for Early Detection of HPV-Related Cancers
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Human papillomavirus (HPV)-related cancers pose significant global health challenges, with cervical cancer being the most recognized, alongside oropharyngeal, anal, and penile cancers. Persistent infection by high-risk HPV types, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, can initiate cancer development by integrating viral DNA into the host genome. This integration disrupts crucial cellular processes like DNA repair, apoptosis, and cell cycle regulation
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Recent literature emphasizes the potential of methylation biomarkers in HPV-related cancers for early detection and prognosis. Methylation, an epigenetic modification involving the addition of methyl groups to DNA, can alter gene expression without changing the DNA sequence itself. Abnormal methylation patterns often manifest as early indicators of cancer, preceding genetic mutations and clinical symptoms
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Our research has focused on developing a DNA methylation biomarker, the S5 classifier, demonstrating high accuracy in detecting high-grade cervical precancer lesions and cancer (ranging from 93% for CIN3 to 100% for cancer). Extensive validation over the past decade has utilized samples collected from cervical, urine, vaginal, and self-collected sources. We aim to extend these findings to include anal, oropharyngeal, and vulvar cancers
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Our results underscore the potential of this multicancer biomarker for diverse gynecologic and male cancers. By presenting our findings, we aim to highlight its broader application in early detection across multiple cancer types, thereby enhancing clinical outcomes and patient care
