Biology of human papillomavirus infections in head and neck carcinogenesis

The role of HR-HPV integration in the progression of premalignant lesions into different cancer types

High-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) is associated with the development of different types of cancer, such as cervical, head and neck (including oral, laryngeal, and oropharyngeal), vulvar, vaginal, penile, and anal cancers. The progression of premalignant lesions to cancer depends on factors associated with the host cell and the different epithelia infected by HPV, such as basal cells of the flat epithelium and the cells of the squamocolumnar transformation zone (STZ) found in the uterine cervix and the anal canal, which is rich in heparan sulfate proteoglycans and integrin-like receptors. On the other hand, factors associated with the viral genotype, infection with multiple viruses, viral load, viral persistence, and type of integration determine the viral breakage pattern and the sites at which the virus integrates into the host cell genome (introns, exons, intergenic regions), inducing the loss of function of tumor suppressor genes and increasing oncogene expression. This review describes the role of viral integration and the molecular mechanisms induced by HR-HPV in different types of tissues. The purpose of this review is to identify the common factors associated with the role of integration events in the progression of premalignant lesions in different types of cancer.

Adjuvant Human Papillomavirus Vaccination in Recurrent Respiratory Papilloma Patients Older than 45

OBJECTIVES

The primary objective was to examine the intersurgical interval (ISI) of recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) in patients older than 45 years before and after a Gardasil vaccination series.

METHODS

We conducted a retrospective chart review of adult patients >45 years of age diagnosed with RRP from 2012 to 2022. Patients were excluded if they did not receive at least two doses of the Gardasil vaccine series or if they underwent two or fewer surgeries during the study period.

RESULTS

Thirteen patients met the inclusion criteria, 11 males and two females. The age at initial diagnosis ranged from 46 to 80 years, with a mean of 59 years. There was a significant increase in the average ISI, from 126 ± 87 days pre-vaccination compared to 494 ± 588 days post-vaccination (p < 0.01). The average number of surgeries per patient was 6.8 ± 2.4 over an average follow-up of 49.7 ± 30.3 months.

CONCLUSION

Adjuvant Gardasil use in RRP patients older than 45 years significantly increases the ISI. Current CDC recommendations include only patients ages 9 to 45, but this study provides evidence that RRP patients outside this age range may benefit from adjuvant HPV vaccination.

LEVEL OF EVIDENCE

4 Laryngoscope, 134:3226-3229, 2024.

Evaluation of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma Patients Using Polymerase Chain Reaction Regarding the Prevalence of Human Papillomavirus Types 16 and 18

BACKGROUND

Epstein-Barr virus, human papillomavirus (HPV), and herpes simplex virus type 1 (HSV-1) are examples of viruses that have been associated with the development of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). These viruses can infect various epithelial tissues in the human body. The use of incredibly accurate cellular biology techniques, such as the polymerase chain reaction (PCR), which permits the rapid identification of viruses following infection, has increased. The parameters of human head and neck oncology have been widened.

AIM

In this study, using the PCR, the presence of HPV variants such as HPV 18 and HPV 16 in patients with OSCC was assessed.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Tissue specimens were obtained from clinically presumed OSCC individuals taken as cases, and tissues from the retromolar region were obtained from people who experienced an operation for partially and completely impacted tooth and taken as controls. The study included 80 samples divided into two separate categories: case category (n = 40) = OSCC-diagnosed individuals; control category (n = 40) = controls with a comparable age. For verification of the diagnosis, a specimen of the tissue has been processed and sections have been stained and inspected for standard hematoxylin and eosin stain. Deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) was extracted from the leftover histopathologically verified tissue specimens and then exposed to PCR for the assessment of HPV infiltration.

RESULTS

It was observed in this research that 22 cases out of 40 cases of OSCC were found positive for HPV-DNA. While 12 out of 40 age-matched healthy controls were found positive for HPV-DNA. Out of 40 cases of OSCC, 12 cases were found positive for HPV 16. While six out of 40 age-matched healthy controls were found positive for HPV 16. Six cases out of 40 cases of OSCC were found positive for HPV 16. While two out of 40 age-matched healthy controls were found positive for HPV 18. Four cases out of 40 cases of OSCC were found positive for HPV 16. While four out of 40 age-matched healthy controls were found positive for HPV 16 and HPV 18. On carrying out statistical analysis, the variation between the two categories was non-meaningful statistically (p = 0.662). However, the prevalence was greater in the case (OSCC) subgroup.

CONCLUSION

When evaluated against controls in the current investigation, OSCC cases had a greater level of HPV expression and a greater proportion of HPV 16 positives. However, there was no statistically noteworthy change.

[Epidemiological features papillomatosis of the larynx in adults: a literature review]

The literature review presents current data on the epidemiology, drug, and surgical treatment of laryngeal papillomatosis in adults. Possible prospects for further study of the prevalence and incidence of the disease and provoking factors of recurrence of the disease for the development of possible preventive measures are considered.

Therapeutic strategy for oncovirus-mediated oral cancer: A comprehensive review

Oral cancer is a neoplastic disorder of the oral cavities, including the lips, tongue, buccal mucosa, and lower and upper gums. Oral cancer assessment entails a multistep process that requires deep knowledge of the molecular networks involved in its progression and development. Preventive measures including public awareness of risk factors and improving public behaviors are necessary, and screening techniques should be encouraged to enable early detection of malignant lesions. Herpes simplex virus (HSV), human papillomavirus (HPV), Epstein-Barr virus (EBV), and Kaposi sarcoma-associated herpesvirus (KSHV) are associated with other premalignant and carcinogenic conditions leading to oral cancer. Oncogenic viruses induce chromosomal rearrangements; activate signal transduction pathways via growth factor receptors, cytoplasmic protein kinases, and DNA binding transcription factors; modulate cell cycle proteins, and inhibit apoptotic pathways. In this review, we present an up-to-date overview on the use of nanomaterials for regulating viral proteins and oral cancer as well as the role of phytocompounds on oral cancer. The targets linking oncoviral proteins and oral carcinogenesis were also discussed.

Human Papilloma Virus-Associated Oral Pharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma: Prevalence, Prevention, and Awareness of Vaccination in the Indian Population

Human papilloma virus (HPV), one of the most common sexually transmitted infections, plays a pivotal role in head and neck cancer, primarily oral and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas. HPV is a vaccine-preventable disease that also contributes to cervical cancer. Although HPV vaccination effectively protects the individual against all HPV-associated human carcinomas, the awareness of HPV vaccination and its acceptance is poor in developing nations like India. India has a very high burden of oral cancer, and, unfortunately, the morbidity and mortality rates are also high as the cancer is often detected at an advanced stage. In this review, we explore the prevalence of HPV-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma among the Indian population and the awareness of HPV vaccination among Indian youth. Since the prognosis for HPV-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma is good, early diagnosis of the cancer is crucial in improving the outcome of the treatment modalities. Efforts are needed to create and increase awareness of HPV vaccination. Routine screening for HPV infection in oral mucosa can prevent the silent epidemic from taking the lives of many young people.

Implications and Emerging Therapeutic Avenues of Inflammatory Response in HPV+ Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) are a heterogeneous group of malignancies which have shown exponential incidence in the last two decades especially due to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. The HPV family comprises more than 100 types of viruses with HPV16 and HPV18 being the most prevalent strains in HNSCC. Literature data reveal that the mutation profile as well as the response to chemotherapy and radiotherapy are distinct among HPV+ versus HPV-negative tumors. Furthermore, the presence of the virus induces activation of an immune response, in particular the recruitment of specific antiviral T lymphocytes to tumor sites. These T cells when activated produce soluble factors including cytokines and chemokines capable of modifying the local immune tumor microenvironment and impact on tumor response to the treatment. In this comprehensive review we investigated current knowledge on how the presence of an HPV can modify the inflammatory response systemically and within the tumor microenvironment's immunological responses, thereby impacting on disease prognosis and survival. We highlighted the research gaps and emerging approaches necessary to discover novel immunotherapeutic targets for HPV-associated HNSCC.

Oncogenic KPNA2 Serves as a Biomarker and Immune Infiltration in Patients With HPV Positive Tongue Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Human tongue squamous cell carcinoma (TSCC), the most prevalent type of oral cancer, is associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Our previous work showed Karyopherin α2 (KPNA2), as an oncogene of TSCC, by relegating the p53/autophagy signaling pathway. Nevertheless, the significance of KPNA2 in TSCC pathogenesis has not been established. KPNA2 levels were evaluated via the TCGA database, and its effects on survival outcomes were assessed by LASSO, Kaplan‐Meier, and COX regression analyses. CIBERSORT and ESTIMATE investigated the relationships between KPNA2 and immune infiltration. At the same time, KPNA2 and HPV infection was analyzed by immunohistochemistry. In addition, the association between downstream molecular regulation pathways and KPNA2 levels was determined by GO, GSEA, and WGCNA. In TSCC, KPNA2 levels were associated with clinical prognosis and tumor grade. Moreover, KPNA2 may be involved in cancer cell differentiation and facilitates tumor-related genes and signaling pathways, such as Cell Cycle, Mitotic G1 phase, G1/S transition, DNA Repair, and Transcriptional Regulation TP53 signaling pathways. Nevertheless, regulatory B cells, follicular helper B cells, and immune and stromal scores between low- and high-KPNA2 expression groups were insignificant. These results imply that KPNA2 is highly involved in tumor grade and prognosis of TSCC. KPNA2 levels correct with HPV 16 markedly regulated cell differentiation, several oncogenes, and cancer‐related pathways.

Preclinical evaluation of Zanthoxylum piperitum Benn., traditional muscle pain remedy, for joint inflammation

ETHNOPHARMACOLOGICAL RELEVANCE

Zanthoxylum piperitum has been used as a traditional Asian medicine to treat hypertension, stroke, bruise and muscle pain. It has been known to induce detoxification; affect anti-bacterial, anti-oxidant, and tyrosinase activity; inhibit osteosarcoma proliferation; anti-osteoarthritis inflammation. In this study, we aim to identify the therapeutic effect of Z. piperitum 90% EtOH extract (ZPE-LR) on rheumatoid arthritis.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

We investigated the anti-rheumatoid arthritis and -immunomodulatory activities of the ZPE-LR in collagen-induced arthritic (CIA) mice, a rheumatoid arthritis animal model. In order to assess the analgesic effects of ZPE-LR in vivo, acetic acid injection, formaldehyde injection, hot plate model was used. The mechanism for anti-inflammatory activity of ZPE-LR was identified with LPS-stimulated Raw 264.7 cells.

RESULTS

Pharmacologically, oral administration of ZPE-LR into CIA mice resulted in a significant and dose-dependent decrease in clinical arthritis score and paw swelling compared to untreated negative control. Pathologic examination showed that ZPE-LR prevented morphological change in cartilage and destruction of phalanges in CIA mice. This protective effect was associated with reduced pain, inflammatory mediators such as NO, TNF-α, IL-1β, and IL-6, as well as COX-2 and iNOS expression. Furthermore, reduction of phosphor-ERK and BDNF indicates a novel rheumatoid arthritis-regulating mechanism by ZPE-LR treatment.

CONCLUSIONS

These data suggest that the administration of ZPE-LR remarkably inhibited CIA progression and might be helpful in suppressing inflammation and pain in rheumatoid arthritis.

Companion Animal Model in Translational Oncology; Feline Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma and Canine Oral Melanoma

Simple Summary

Laboratory rodents are the most common animal models used in preclinical cancer research. Companion animals with naturally occurring cancers are an under-utilized natural model for the development of new anti-cancer drugs. Dogs and cats develop several types of cancers that resemble those arising in humans with similar clinical and histopathological features and often with similar molecular and genetic backgrounds. Exposure to environmental carcinogens, including air, food and water are also common between people and their pets. Dogs and cats are a unique model that could be integrated between the preclinical laboratory animal model and human clinical trials.

Abstract

Companion animals with naturally occurring cancers can provide an advantageous model for cancer research and in particular anticancer drug development. Compared to commonly utilized mouse models, companion animals, specifically dogs and cats, share a closer phylogenetical distance, body size, and genome organization. Most importantly, pets develop spontaneous, rather than artificially induced, cancers. The incidence of cancer in people and companion animals is quite similar and cancer is the leading cause of death in dogs over 10 years of age. Many cancer types in dogs and cats have similar pathological, molecular, and clinical features to their human counterparts. Drug toxicity and response to anti-cancer treatment in dogs and cats are also similar to those in people. Companion animals share their lives with their owners, including the environmental and socioeconomic cancer-risk factors. In contrast to humans, pets have a shorter life span and cancer progression is often more rapid. Clinical trials in companion animals are cheaper and less time consuming compared to human trials. Dogs and cats with naturally occurring cancers are an ideal and unique model for human cancer research. Model selection for the specific type of cancer is of pivotal importance. Although companion animal models for translational research have been reviewed previously, this review will try to summarize the most important advantages and disadvantages of this model. Feline oral squamous cell carcinoma as a model for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma and canine oral melanoma as a model for mucosal melanoma and immunotherapy in people will be discussed as examples.

Episome partitioning and symmetric cell divisions: Quantifying the role of random events in the persistence of HPV infections

Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) are one of the most prevalent sexually transmitted infections (STI) and the most oncogenic viruses known to humans. The vast majority of HPV infections clear in less than 3 years, but the underlying mechanisms, especially the involvement of the immune response, are still poorly known. Building on earlier work stressing the importance of randomness in the type of cell divisions in the clearance of HPV infection, we develop a stochastic mathematical model of HPV dynamics that combines the previous aspect with an explicit description of the intracellular level. We show that the random partitioning of virus episomes upon stem cell division and the occurrence of symmetric divisions dramatically affect viral persistence. These results call for more detailed within-host studies to better understand the relative importance of stochasticity and immunity in HPV infection clearance.

Every year, infections by Human Papillomaviruses (HPV) are responsible for a large share of infectious cancers. The prevalence of HPVs is very high, which makes it a major public health issue. Fortunately, most HPV infections (80 to 90%) are cleared naturally within three years. Among the few that persist into chronic infections, the majority also naturally regress. Hence for a given HPV infection, the risk of progression towards cancerous status is low. The immune response is often invoked to explain HPV clearance in non-persisting infections, but many uncertainties remain. Besides immunity, randomness was also suggested to play an important role. Here, we examine how random events occurring during the life cycle of the virus could alter the persistence of the virus inside the host. We develop a mechanistic model that explicitly follows the dynamic of viral copies inside host cells, as well as the dynamics of the epithelium. In our model, infection extinction occurs when all viral copies end up in differentiated cells and migrate towards the surface. This can happen upon cell division during the random allocation of the episomes (i.e. independent circular DNA copies of the viral genome) or when a stem cell divides symmetrically to generate two differentiated cells. We find that the combination of these random events drastically affects infection persistence. More generally, the importance of random fluctuations could match that of immunity and calls for further studies at the within-host and the epidemiological level.

Prevalence and distribution of HPV infection and subtypes in oral squamous cell carcinoma in Africa: a systematic review protocol

INTRODUCTION

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is an established risk factor for oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, regardless of a history of other known risk factors such as alcohol and tobacco. While cases of HPV-related oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSSC) are increasing in the USA, Europe and South Central Asian countries, little is known about the impact of the disease on the African continent.

METHODS AND ANALYSIS

We describe a protocol for a systematic review to synthesise the best current evidence to assess the disease burden in Africa. Electronic databases including EBSCOhost, MEDLINE, CINAHL, ACADEMIC SEARCH COMPLETE, ScienceDirect, Web of Science, Scopus, SciCENTRAL, Cochrane Library, International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews) and WorldCAT will be comprehensively searched for studies reporting on the defined outcomes, in Africa, published from 1985 (when HPV was first reported) to the latest current entries, with no language restriction. Supplemental handsearching of grey literature, conference abstract proceedings, reference lists of included studies and citations in Google Scholar will be conducted. Authors will be contacted, where necessary, to assist with missing data. A customised data extraction form, with specified criteria, will be used for data extraction. Overall study quality assessment will be done using an appropriate risk of bias tool suited to the study design. Where available, qualitative data from studies reporting on the outcomes will be captured on the data extraction form. Using Stata software, we will apply the random-effects meta-analysis model to aggregate prevalence estimates with 95% CI, incorporating the Freeman-Tukey transformation to account for between-study variability. A narrative report of the findings will be presented where data are insufficient in terms of the outcome/s. Subgroup analysis will be done subject to sufficient available data.

ETHICS AND DISSEMINATION

Ethics approval or written consent is not required as the review will be conducted using published data. The findings will be distributed through a peer-review publication and conference presentation.

NF-Y Subunits Overexpression in HNSCC

Simple Summary

Cancer cells have altered gene expression profiles. This is ultimately elicited by altered structure, expression or binding of transcription factors to regulatory regions of genomes. The CCAAT-binding trimer is a pioneer transcription factor involved in the activation of “cancer” genes. We and others have shown that the regulatory NF-YA subunit is overexpressed in epithelial cancers. Here, we examined large datasets of bulk gene expression profiles, as well as single-cell data, in head and neck squamous cell carcinomas by bioinformatic methods. We partitioned tumors according to molecular subtypes, mutations and positivity for HPV. We came to the conclusion that high levels of the histone-like subunits and the “short” NF-YAs isoform are protective in HPV-positive tumors. On the other hand, high levels of the “long” NF-YAl were found in the recently identified aggressive and metastasis-prone cell population undergoing partial epithelial to mesenchymal transition, p-EMT.

Abstract

NF-Y is the CCAAT-binding trimer formed by the histone fold domain (HFD), NF-YB/NF-YC and NF-YA. The CCAAT box is generally prevalent in promoters of “cancer” genes. We reported the overexpression of NF-YA in BRCA, LUAD and LUSC, and of all subunits in HCC. Altered splicing of NF-YA was found in breast and lung cancer. We analyzed RNA-seq datasets of TCGA and cell lines of head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC). We partitioned all TCGA data into four subtypes, deconvoluted single-cell RNA-seq of tumors and derived survival curves. The CCAAT box was enriched in the promoters of overexpressed genes. The “short” NF-YAs was overexpressed in all subtypes and the “long” NF-YAl in Mesenchymal. The HFD subunits are overexpressed, except Basal (NF-YB) and Atypical (NF-YC); NF-YAl is increased in p53 mutated tumors. In HPV-positive tumors, high levels of NF-YAs, p16 and ΔNp63 correlate with better prognosis. Deconvolution of single cell RNA-seq (scRNA-seq) found a correlation of NF-YAl with Cancer Associated Fibroblasts (CAFs) and p-EMT cells, a population endowed with metastatic potential. We conclude that overexpression of HFD subunits and NF-YAs is protective in HPV-positive tumors; expression of NF-YAl is largely confined to mutp53 tumors and malignant p-EMT cells.

Cytokeratin 7 and 19 expression in oropharyngeal and oral squamous cell carcinoma

PURPOSE

The precise etiopathogenesis of human papillomavirus (HPV)-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), and reasons for predilection for crypt epithelium, remain uncertain. The purpose of this study is to investigate the interaction between HPV and specific cytokeratins 7 (CK7) and 19 (CK19) in crypt epithelium.

METHODS

This is a retrospective cohort study of patients presenting between 1999 and 2015 at a tertiary referral center. CK7 and CK19 positivity and H Scores were determined by immunohistochemistry. Disease-specific and overall survival rates were analyzed.

RESULTS

There were 253 patients presenting with OPSCC (134), squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of unknown primary site (22), and oral tongue SCC (97). Primary tumor CK7 and CK19 positivity and H Scores were significantly higher in HPV-positive OPSCC than HPV-negative OPSCC and oral tongue SCC. Higher CK19 Scores, but not CK7 Scores, were also seen in regional metastases from HPV-positive OPSCC than other sites. No impact on disease-specific or overall survival was identified on multivariate analysis.

CONCLUSION

The increased expression of CK7 and CK19 in HPV-positive OPSCC compared to HPV-negative disease supports the theory for a role for these cytokeratins in the etiopathogenesis of HPV-related OPSCC.

Discrepancy in p16 expression in patients with HPV-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma in Thailand: clinical characteristics and survival outcomes

BACKGROUND

Lower prevalence HPV infection has been previously reported in Thai population when compared with Western countries. p16 expression indicates HPV-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), but not non-OPSCC. We therefore evaluated the characteristic and association of p16 and HPV in Thai patients with HNSCC.

METHODS

We used immunohistochemistry and qPCR, respectively, to detect p16 and HPV DNA in archrival formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded HNSCC tissues. Patient characteristics and survival were analyzed.

RESULTS

p16 expression was detected in tumors of 72 of 662 (10.9%) patients with HNSCC and was significantly associated with higher-grade histology, advanced nodal stage, and oropharynx. p16 was expressed in 28 and 6.5% of patients with OPSCC or non-OPSCC, respectively, and HPV DNA was detected in 15.6 and 1% of patients, respectively. Using p16 as a surrogate for HPV status, sensitivities were 80 and 25% in OPSCC and non-OPSCC, respectively. Positive and negative predictive rates of OPSCC were 38 and 95%. Discordance rates between HPV and p16 were 23 and 7% in OPSCC and non-OPSCC, respectively. Overall survival (OS) were significantly longer in both p16-positive OPSCC (p = 0.049), and non-OPSCC (p = 0.003).

CONCLUSIONS

Low prevalence of p16 and HPV associated OPSCC and non-OPSCC were confirmed in Thai patients. High discordance and low positive predictive rates of p16 were observed in HPV-associated OPSCC. p16 was a significant prognostic factor for OS for patients with OPSCC or non-OPSCC. Therefore, HPV testing should be performed to assess the association of HPV with HNSCC regardless of p16 expression.

HLA-G polymorphism impacts the outcome of oral HPV infections in women

BACKROUND

Human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-G may have an important role in the natural history of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Our aim was to evaluate the role of HLA-G in the outcome of genital and oral HPV infections in women.

METHODS

Analyses included 306 women from the Finnish Family HPV-study and were followed-up for six years. Genital and oral samples were tested for 24 different HPV types with multiplex HPV genotyping. HLA-G alleles were determined through direct DNA-sequencing. Unconditional logistic regression was used to determine the associations between HLA-G genotypes and HPV infection outcomes.

RESULTS

Ten HLA-G alleles were identified. Most common HLA-G genotypes were the wild type G*01:01:01/01:01:01 (31.3%) followed by G*01:01:01/01:01:02 (26.8%). G*01:01:01/01:01:01 genotype was associated with increased risk of oral HPV infections by any HPV type or single-type with OR = 1.86 (95% CI 1.14-3.04, P = 0.01) and 2.22 (95% CI 1.14-3.71, P = 0.02), respectively. G*04:01+ allele and the G*01:01:01/01:04:01 genotype both protected from any and single oral HPV infections; OR = 0.46 (95% CI 0.23-0.89, P = 0.02) and 0.53 (95% CI 0.23-0.97, P = 0.03), respectively. G*01:01:02/01:04:01 genotype increased significantly the risk of infertility and its treatments, with respective OR = 5.06 (95% CI 1.22-21.02, P = 0.03) and OR = 9.07 (95% CI 1.22-39.50, P = 0.03). Both HLA-G alleles and genotypes showed several significant associations with the outcomes of oral HPV infections, but none of them had any impact on the outcomes of genital HPV infections in these women.

CONCLUSIONS

The host HLA-G genotypes appear to impact the outcomes of oral HPV infections in women but have little if any effect on genital HPV status or infection outcomes.

Identification of Immune-Related LncRNA Pairs for Predicting Prognosis and Immunotherapeutic Response in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

Long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have multiple functions with regard to the cancer immunity response and the tumor microenvironment. The prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is still poor currently, and it may be effective to predict the clinical outcome and immunotherapeutic response of HNSCC by immunogenic analysis. Therefore, by using univariate COX analysis and Lasso Cox regression, we identified a signature consisting of 21 immune-related lncRNA pairs (IRLPs) that predicted clinical outcome and Immunotherapeutic response in HNSCC. Specifically, it was associated with immune cell infiltration (i.e., T cells CD4 memory resting, CD8 T cells, macrophages M0, M2, and NK cells), and more importantly this signature was strongly related with immune checkpoint inhibitors (ICIs) [such as PDCD1 (r = -0.35, P < 0.001), CTLA4 (r = -0.26, P < 0.001), LAG3 (r = -0.22, P < 0.001) and HAVCR2 (r = -0.2, P < 0.001)] and immunotherapy-related biomarkers (MMR and HLA). The present study highlighted the value of the 21 IRLPs signature as a predictor of prognosis and immunotherapeutic response in HNSCC.

Pathogenic Role of Immune Evasion and Integration of Human Papillomavirus in Oropharyngeal Cancer

The incidence of oropharyngeal cancer (OPC) is increasing remarkably among all head and neck cancers, mainly due to its association with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Most HPVs are eliminated by the host’s immune system; however, because HPV has developed an effective immune evasion mechanism to complete its replication cycle, a small number of HPVs are not eliminated, leading to persistent infection. Moreover, during the oncogenic process, the extrachromosomal HPV genome often becomes integrated into the host genome. Integration involves the induction and high expression of E6 and E7, leading to cell cycle activation and increased genomic instability in the host. Therefore, integration is an important event in oncogenesis, although the associated mechanism remains unclear, especially in HPV-OPC. In this review, we summarize the current knowledge on HPV-mediated carcinogenesis, with special emphasis on immune evasion and integration mechanisms, which are crucial for oncogenesis.

Cancer Immunoprevention: Current Status and Future Directions

Cancer is one of the most serious diseases affecting health and the second leading cause of death worldwide. Despite the development of various therapeutic modalities to deal with cancer, limited improvement in overall survival of patients has been yielded. Since there is no certain cure for cancer, detection of premalignant lesions, and prevention of their progression are vital to the decline of high morbidity and mortality of cancer. Among approaches to cancer prevention, immunoprevention has gained further attention in recent years. Deep understanding of the tumor/immune system interplay and successful prevention of virally-induced malignancies by vaccines have paved the way toward broadening cancer immunoprevention application. The identification of tumor antigens in premalignant lesions was the turning point in cancer immunoprevention that led to designing preventive vaccines for various malignancies including multiple myeloma, colorectal, and breast cancer. In addition to vaccines, immune checkpoint inhibitors are also being tested for the prevention of oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC), and imiquimod which is an established drug for the prevention of skin SCC, is a non-specific immunomodulator. Herein, to provide a bench-to-bedside understanding of cancer immunoprevention, we will review the role of the immune system in suppression and promotion of tumors, immunoprevention of virally-induced cancers, identification of tumor antigens in premalignant lesions, and clinical advances of cancer immunoprevention.

Notch Signaling and Human Papillomavirus-Associated Oral Tumorigenesis

The NOTCH pathway is critical for the development of many cell types including the squamous epithelium lining of cutaneous and mucosal surfaces. In genetically engineered mouse models, Notch1 acts as one of the first steps to commit basal keratinocytes to terminally differentiate. Similarly, in human head and neck squamous cell cancers (HNSCCs), NOTCH1 is often lost consistent with its essential tumor-suppressive role for initiating keratinocyte differentiation. However, constitutive NOTCH1 activity in the epithelium results in expansion of the spinous keratinocyte layers and impaired terminal differentiation is consistent with the role of NOTCH1 as an oncogene in other cancers, especially in T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. We have previously observed that NOTCH1 plays a dual role as both a tumor suppressor and oncogene, depending on the mutational context of the tumor. Namely, gain or loss or NOTCH1 activity promotes the development of human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated cancers. The additional HPV oncogenes likely disrupt the tumor-suppressive activities of NOTCH and enable the oncogenic pathways activated by NOTCH to promote tumor growth. In this review, we detail the role of NOTCH pathway in head and neck cancers with a focus on HPV-associated cancers.

HRRD: a manually-curated database about the regulatory relationship between HPV and host RNA

HPV (Human papilloma virus) is a kind of small double-stranded DNA viruses which is extremely associated with different cancers. The roles HPV plays in the host were gradually identified through the interaction between it (including its early genes) and host RNA. In recent years, increasing numbers of studies in HPV-related cancers have been published showing the relationship between HPV and host RNA. Here, we present a database named HRRD, which contains the regulatory relationship between HPV and RNA (mRNA, miRNA and lncRNA). The information was extracted from 10,761 papers in PubMed (up to December 1st, 2019). In addition, the sequence map of HPV (198 genotypes) is also contained. HRRD was designed as a user-friendly web-based interface for data retrieval. It integrated the information of interaction between HPV and RNA, which reflects the relationship between HPV and host. We hope HRRD will further provide a comprehensive understanding of HPV in carcinogenesis and prognosis. HRRD is freely accessible at www.hmuhrrd.com/HRRD.

Development and validation of a fourteen- innate immunity-related gene pairs signature for predicting prognosis head and neck squamous cell carcinoma

Background

Immune-related genes is closely related to the occurrence and prognosis of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). At the same time, immune-related genes have great potential as prognostic markers in many types of cancer. The prognosis of HNSCC is still poor currently, and it may be effective to predict the clinical outcome of HNSCC by immunogenic analysis.

Methods

RNASeq and clinical follow-up information were downloaded from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA), the MINiML format GSE65858 chip expression data was downloaded from NCBI, and immune-related genes was downloaded from the InnateDB database. Immune-related genes in 519 HNSC patients were integrated from TCGA dataset. By using multivariate COX analysis and Lasso regression, robust immune-related gene pairs (IRGPs) that predict clinical outcomes of HNSCC were identified. Finally, a risk prognostic model related to immune gene pair was established and verified by clinical features, test sets and GEO external validation set.

Results

A total of 699 IRGPs were significantly correlated with the prognosis of HNSCC patients. Fourteen robust IRGPs were finally obtained by Lasso regression and a prognostic risk prediction model was constructed. Risk score of each sample were calculated based on Risk models and divided into the high-risk group (Risk-H) and low Risk group (Risk-L). Risk models were able to stratify the risk in patients with TNM Stage, Age, gender, and smoking history, and the AUC > 0.65 in training set and test set, shows that 14-IRGPs signature in patients with HNSCC has excellent classification performance. In addition, 14-IRGPs had the highest average C index compared with the prognostic characteristics and T, N, and Age of the 3 previously reported HNSCC.

Conclusion

This study constructed 14-IRGPs as a novel prognostic marker for predicting survival in HNSCC patients.

An Immunocompetent Mouse Model of HPV16(+) Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The incidence of human papilloma virus (HPV)-associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is increasing and implicated in more than 60% of all oropharyngeal carcinomas (OPSCCs). Although whole-genome, transcriptome, and proteome analyses have identified altered signaling pathways in HPV-induced HNSCCs, additional tools are needed to investigate the unique pathobiology of OPSCC. Herein, bioinformatics analyses of human HPV(+) HNSCCs revealed that all tumors express full-length E6 and identified molecular subtypes based on relative E6 and E7 expression levels. To recapitulate the levels, stoichiometric ratios, and anatomic location of E6/E7 expression, we generated a genetically engineered mouse model whereby balanced expression of E6/E7 is directed to the oropharyngeal epithelium. The addition of a mutant PIK3CA^E545K allele leads to the rapid development of pre-malignant lesions marked by immune cell accumulation, and a subset of these lesions progress to OPSCC. This mouse provides a faithful immunocompetent model for testing treatments and investigating mechanisms of immuno- suppression.

Carper et al. present the ‘‘iKHP’’ mouse, in which HPV16 oncogenes are inducibly activated in vivo in a tissue-specific and temporal manner. Oropharyngeal- specific expression of E6/E7 with PIK3CA^E545K in these mice promotes the development of premalignant lesions marked by immune cell infiltration, but only a subset spontaneously convert to OPSCC.

Nomogram forecasting 3-, 5-, and 8-year overall survival and cancer-specific survival of gingival squamous cell carcinoma

No nomogram models addressing the personalized prognosis evaluation of patients with gingival squamous cell carcinoma (GSCC) have been documented. We sought to establish nomograms to forecast overall survival (OS) and cancer-specific survival (CSS) of patients with GSCC. We collected the detailed clinicopathological information of 2505 patients with GSCC from the Surveillance, Epidemiology and End Results (SEER) program. Afterward, we divided the 2505 cases into a modeling group (n = 1253) and an external validation cohort (n = 1252) via random split-sample method. We developed the nomograms on the basis of the Kaplan-Meier and multivariate Cox survival analysis of the modeling group and then split the modeling cohort into two parts based on cut-off values: high- and low-risk cohorts. An improved survival was shown in the low-risk group compared to their counterpart, with a significant difference after the log-rank test. The performance of the nomograms was evaluated via concordance-index (C-index), the area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUC), and calibration curves. All the C-indexes and AUCs were greater than 0.7, showing high accuracy. Moreover, the calibrations showed that the actual observations were close to the 45° perfect reference line. In conclusion, we successfully developed two nomograms to provide individualized, patient-specific estimates of OS and CSS available for risk-stratification.

Immunological Network in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma-A Prognostic Tool Beyond HPV Status

Head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is a highly heterogeneous disease that affects more than 800,000 patients worldwide each year. The variability of HNSCC is associated with differences in the carcinogenesis processes that are caused by two major etiological agents, namely, alcohol/tobacco, and human papillomavirus (HPV). Compared to non-virally induced carcinomas, the oropharyngeal tumors associated with HPV infection show markedly better clinical outcomes and are characterized by an immunologically “hot” landscape with high levels of tumor-infiltrating lymphocytes. However, the standard of care remains the same for both HPV-positive and HPV-negative HNSCC. Surprisingly, treatment de-escalation trials have not shown any clinical benefit in patients with HPV-positive tumors to date, most likely due to insufficient patient stratification. The in-depth analysis of the immune response, which places an emphasis on tumor-infiltrating immune cells, is a widely accepted prognostic tool that might significantly improve both the stratification of HNSCC patients in de-escalation trials and the development of novel immunotherapeutic approaches.

High-risk human papillomavirus in patients with oral leukoplakia and oral squamous cell carcinoma-A multi-centre study in Sweden, Brazil and Romania

OBJECTIVES

Although causal associations between oral leukoplakia (OL), oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) and high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV) have been speculated upon in several reports, conclusive evidence has not been presented. This study investigates whether the number of cases of HR-HPV in OL has increased over time and whether the prevalence of HR-HPV-positive OL differs in various parts of the world.

PATIENTS AND METHODS

A total of 432 patients with OL from Sweden, Brazil and Romania were analysed. Patients were divided into historical (1992-2002) and contemporary (2011-2017) cohorts from the respective countries. Seventeen patients with OL developed oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC). A real-time PCR assay, targeting HPV sub-types 6,11,16,18,31,33,35,39,45,52,56,58 and 59, was performed to detect HR-HPV in patients with OL.

RESULTS

In the Swedish and Romanian cohorts, none of the investigated HPV sub-types were detected. In the Brazilian cohorts, five patients with OL (3%) were positive for HR-HPV, including four patients from the contemporary cohort (HPV 16, 31, 33) and one from the historical cohort (HPV 11). All the cases of OL that transformed into OSCC were HR-HPV-negative, as were the corresponding tumours.

CONCLUSIONS

In summary, the prevalence of HR-HPV in OL is low in all the tested countries, and the incidence has not changed over time. HR-HPV in OL does not seem to be a driver of oncogenesis.

Arguments to Support a Viral Origin of Oral Squamous Cell Carcinoma in Non-Smoker and Non-Drinker Patients

In some western countries, an increasing incidence of oral squamous cell carcinoma (OSCC) has been observed in non-smoker non-drinker patients (NSND), mostly in women with HPV-negative OSCC. In the context of the unknown etiology and mechanisms of tumorigenesis of OSCC in NSND, we discuss data supporting the hypothesis of a viral origin not related to HPV. OSCC from NSND are characterized by an antiviral DNA methylation and gene expression signature. Based on the similar increasing incidence of oral tongue SCC (OTSCC) and oropharyngeal SCC (OPSCC) in young women and men respectively, we hypothesize that changes in sexual behaviors may lead to an increasing incidence of herpesvirus in the oral cavity, especially HSV-2, similarly to what has already been described in HPV-positive OPSCC. Because viral genome integration has not been detected in OSCC from NSND, a "hit and run" viral mechanism involving epigenome deregulation could therefore play a key role at early steps of oral carcinogenesis in this population of patients. In conclusion, epidemiological, clinical and molecular data supports a "hit and run" viral origin of OSCC from NSND.

Association of the mir-499 polymorphisms with oral cavity and oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma in an Iranian population

BACKGROUND

Oral squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the most common oral malignancy. Some evidence indicated that there is a correlation between microRNA single nucleotide polymorphisms and the risk of oral cancer. The aim of the current study was to investigate the association between mir-499 polymorphism with the risk of oral cavity and oropharyngeal SCC in a subset of Iranian Population.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

In this case-control pilot study total of 112 participants including 56 histopathlogically confirmed oral and oropharyngeal SCC patients and 56 age- and sex-matched controls were included The mir-499 rs3746444 T/C polymorphism was detected using polymerase chain reaction-restriction fragment length polymorphism method. The comparisons of the distribution of the allele and genotype frequencies were performed using Chi-square test, and P < 0.05 was considered as statistically significant.

RESULTS

The result of the present study indicated that the frequency distribution of mir-499 was not significantly different between cases and controls (P > 0.05). We also did not find any significant association between the risk of the cancer and mir-499 polymorphisms in the recessive (Odds ratio [OR]: 6.60; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.77-56.74; P = 0.11) and dominant (OR: 1; 95% CI: 0.37-2.74; P = 1) inheritance models even after adjustment for smoking.

CONCLUSION

The results of the present study indicated that the polymorphisms of mir-499 are not associated with the risk of oral and oropharyngeal SCC in Iranian population. However, further large scale studies are needed to validate our findings.

HPV Involvement in the Tumor Microenvironment and Immune Treatment in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinomas

Head and neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCC) are one of the most prevalent cancers worldwide. Active human papillomavirus (HPV) infection has been identified as an important additional risk factor and seems to be associated with a better prognosis in non-drinker and non-smoker young patients with oropharyngeal SCC. The better response of the immune system against the HPV-induced HNSCC is suspected as a potential explanation for the better prognosis of young patients. To further assess this hypothesis, our review aims to shed light the current knowledge about the impact of HPV infection on the immune response in the context of HNSCC, focusing on the innate immune system, particularly highlighting the role of macrophages, Langerhans and myeloid cells, and on the adaptative immune system, pointing out the involvement of T regulatory, T CD8 and T CD4 lymphocytes. In addition, we also review the preventive (HPV vaccines) and therapeutic (checkpoint inhibitors) strategies against HPV-related HNSCC, stressing the use of anti-CTLA4, PD-L1, PD-L2 antibodies alone and in combination with other agents able to modulate immune responses.

Educational Case: Human Papillomavirus-Positive Oropharyngeal Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The following fictional case is intended as a learning tool within the Pathology Competencies for Medical Education (PCME), a set of national standards for teaching pathology. These are divided into three basic competencies: Disease Mechanisms and Processes, Organ System Pathology, and Diagnostic Medicine and Therapeutic Pathology. For additional information, and a full list of learning objectives for all three competencies, see http://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/2374289517715040.¹.

Immunological tolerance of low-risk HPV in recurrent respiratory papillomatosis

Recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (RRP) is characterized by benign exophytic lesions of the respiratory tract caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), in particular low-risk HPV6 and HPV11. Aggressiveness varies greatly among patients. Surgical excision is the current standard of care for RRP, with adjuvant therapy used when surgery cannot control disease recurrence. Numerous adjuvant therapies have been used to control RRP with some success, but none are curative. Current literature supports a polarization of the adaptive immune response to a T helper type 2 (Th2)-like or T regulatory phenotype, driven by a complex interplay between innate immunity, adaptive immunity and HPV6/11 proteins. Additionally, certain immunogenetic polymorphisms can predispose individuals to an HPV6/11-tolerant microenvironment. As a result, immunomodulatory efforts are being made to restore the host immune system to a more balanced T cell phenotype and clear viral infection. Literature has shown exciting evidence for the role of HPV vaccination with Gardasil or Gardasil-9 as both primary prevention, by decreasing incidence through childhood vaccinations, and secondary prevention, by treating active RRP disease. Multi-institution randomized clinical trials are needed to better assess their efficacy as treatment for active disease. Interestingly, a DNA vaccine has recently shown in-vitro success in generating a more robust CD8⁺ T cell response. Furthermore, clinical trials for programmed death 1 (PD-1) inhibitors are under investigation for RRP management. Molecular insights into RRP, in particular the interplay between RRP and the immune system, are needed to advance our understanding of this disease and may lead to the identification of immunomodulatory agents to better manage RRP.

Mucosal and Cutaneous Human Papillomavirus Infections and Cancer Biology

Papillomaviridae is a family of small non-enveloped icosahedral viruses with double-stranded circular DNA. More than 200 different human papillomaviruses (HPVs) have been listed so far. Based on epidemiological data, a subgroup of alphapapillomaviruses (alpha HPVs) was referred to as high-risk (HR) HPV types. HR HPVs are the etiological agents of anogenital cancer and a subset of head and neck cancers. The cutaneous HPV types, mainly from beta and gamma genera, are widely present on the surface of the skin in the general population. However, there is growing evidence of an etiological role of betapapillomaviruses (beta HPVs) in non-melanoma skin cancer (NMSC), together with ultraviolet (UV) radiation. Studies performed on mucosal HR HPV types, such as 16 and 18, showed that both oncoproteins E6 and E7 play a key role in cervical cancer by altering pathways involved in the host immune response to establish a persistent infection and by promoting cellular transformation. Continuous expression of E6 and E7 of mucosal HR HPV types is essential to initiate and to maintain the cellular transformation process, whereas expression of E6 and E7 of cutaneous HPV types is not required for the maintenance of the skin cancer phenotype. Beta HPV types appear to play a role in the initiation of skin carcinogenesis, by exacerbating the accumulation of UV radiation-induced DNA breaks and somatic mutations (the hit-and-run mechanism), and they would therefore act as facilitators rather than direct actors in NMSC. In this review, the natural history of HPV infection and the transforming properties of various HPV genera will be described, with a particular focus on describing the state of knowledge about the role of cutaneous HPV types in NMSC.

A Natural History of Actinic Keratosis and Cutaneous Squamous Cell Carcinoma Microbiomes

Cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) is the second-most-common cancer in Australia. The majority of SCCs progress from premalignant actinic keratosis (AK) lesions that form on chronically sun-exposed skin. The role of skin microbiota in this progression is not well understood; therefore, we performed a longitudinal microbiome analysis of AKs and SCCs using a cohort of 13 SCC-prone immunocompetent men. The majority of variability in microbial profiles was attributable to subject, followed by time and lesion type. Propionibacterium and Malassezia organisms were relatively more abundant in nonlesional photodamaged skin than in AKs and SCCs. Staphylococcus was most commonly associated with lesional skin, in particular, sequences most closely related to Staphylococcus aureus Of 11 S. aureus-like operational taxonomic units (OTUs), six were significantly associated with SCC lesions across seven subjects, suggesting their specific involvement with AK-to-SCC progression. If a causative link exists between certain S. aureus-like OTUs and SCC etiology, therapeutic approaches specifically targeting these bacteria could be used to reduce SCC.IMPORTANCE Actinic keratosis (AK) and cutaneous squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) are two of the most common dermatologic conditions in Western countries and cause substantial morbidity worldwide. The role of human papillomaviruses under these conditions has been well studied yet remains inconclusive. One PCR-based study has investigated bacteria in the etiology of these conditions; however, no study has investigated the microbiomes of AK and SCC more broadly. We longitudinally profiled the microbiomes of 112 AK lesions, profiled cross sections of 32 spontaneously arising SCC lesions, and compared these to matching nonlesional photodamaged control skin sites. We identified commonly occurring strains of Propionibacterium and Malassezia at higher relative abundances on nonlesional skin than in AK and SCC lesions, and strains of Staphylococcus aureus were relatively more abundant in lesional than nonlesional skin. These findings may aid in the prevention of SCC.

Expression of human papillomavirus oncoproteins E6 and E7 inhibits invadopodia activity but promotes cell migration in HPV-positive head and neck squamous cell carcinoma cells

Background

The rapid increase in the incidence of head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) is caused by high‐risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infections. The HPV oncogenes E6 and E7 promote carcinogenesis by disrupting signaling pathways that control survival and proliferation. Although these cancers are often diagnosed with metastases, the mechanisms that regulate their dissemination are unknown.

Aims

The aim of this study was to determine whether the HPV‐16 E6 and E7 oncogenes affected the invasive and migratory properties of HNSCC cells which promote their spread and metastasis.

Methods and results

Invasiveness was determined using invadopodia assays which allow for quantitation of extracellular matrix (ECM) degradation by invadopodia which are proteolytic membrane protrusions that facilitate invasion. Using cell lines and genetic manipulations, we found that HPV inhibited invadopodia activity in aggressive cell lines which was mediated by the E6 and E7 oncogenes. Given these findings, we also tested whether HPV caused differences in the migratory ability of HNSCC cells using Transwell assays. In contrast to our invadopodia results, we found no correlation between HPV status and cell migration; however, blocking the expression of the E6 and E7 oncoproteins in a HPV‐positive (HPV⁺) HNSCC cell line resulted in decreased migration.

Conclusions

Our data suggest that the E6 and E7 oncoproteins are negative regulators of invadopodia activity but may promote migration in HPV⁺ HNSCC cells. Despite the need for ECM proteolysis to penetrate most tissues, the unique structure of the head and neck tissues in which these cancers arise may facilitate the spread of migratory cancer cells without significant proteolytic ability.

Human Papillomavirus Testing in Head and Neck Carcinomas: Guideline From the College of American Pathologists

Context Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a major cause of oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas, and HPV (and/or surrogate marker p16) status has emerged as a prognostic marker that significantly impacts clinical management. There is no current consensus on when to test oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinomas for HPV/p16 or on which tests to choose. Objective To develop evidence-based recommendations for the testing, application, interpretation, and reporting of HPV and surrogate marker tests in head and neck carcinomas. Design The College of American Pathologists convened a panel of experts in head and neck and molecular pathology, as well as surgical, medical, and radiation oncology, to develop recommendations. A systematic review of the literature was conducted to address 6 key questions. Final recommendations were derived from strength of evidence, open comment period feedback, and expert panel consensus. Results The major recommendations include (1) testing newly diagnosed oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients for high-risk HPV, either from the primary tumor or from cervical nodal metastases, using p16 immunohistochemistry with a 70% nuclear and cytoplasmic staining cutoff, and (2) not routinely testing nonsquamous oropharyngeal carcinomas or nonoropharyngeal carcinomas for HPV. Pathologists are to report tumors as HPV positive or p16 positive. Guidelines are provided for testing cytologic samples and handling of locoregional and distant recurrence specimens. Conclusions Based on the systematic review and on expert panel consensus, high-risk HPV testing is recommended for all new oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma patients, but not routinely recommended for other head and neck carcinomas.

Expression and Significance of Cytokeratin 7, a Squamocolumnar Junction Marker, in Head and Neck Squamous Cell Carcinoma

The favorable features of high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) in the head and neck are limited to those harboring transcriptionally-active HPV, which occur predominantly in the oropharynx (OP). Factors rendering the OP susceptible to HPV oncogenesis are largely unexplored. The role of cytokeratin 7 (CK7) in predisposition to HPV and cancer in the cervix has been evaluated. However, its significance in the H&N is unknown. CK7 immunohistochemistry was performed on a tissue microarray cohort of OP and non-oropharyngeal (NOP) squamous cell carcinomas (SCC) with known clinical follow-up and HPV E6/7 mRNA status. Expression was graded based on the distribution (1 ≤ 33%, 2 = 33-66%, 3 ≥ 66%) and intensity (1 = weak, 2 = strong) with combined score of ≥ 2 considered positive. Survival analysis was performed. Seventy-four NOPSCCs and 204 OPSCCs were studied. HPV was positive in 2.7% of NOPSCCs and 70.9% of OPSCCs. CK7 was positive in 23.0% of OPSCCs and 14.8% of NOPSCCs (p = 0.2), and in 24.1% of HPV positive versus 17.2% of negative patients (p = 0.2). There was no correlation with age, race, gender, HPV status, histologic type, tumor subsite, treatment, stage, or co-morbidities, and CK7 expression was not significantly associated with overall or disease specific survival. In our series, CK7 is positive in ~ 25% of H&N SCCs, although usually only focally. While CK7 has been suspected to be overexpressed selectively in HPV-related OPSCCs due to their origination from tonsillar crypt epithelium, we did not find any significant difference by anatomic H&N subsite, nor by HPV status, for its expression and found no association with patient survival.

Detection of HPV related oropharyngeal cancer in oral rinse specimens

Background

The majority of patients diagnosed with oropharyngeal squamous cell cancer (OPSCC) are due to HPV infection. At present, there are no reliable tests for screening HPV in patients with OPSCC. The objective of this study was to assess the Cobas® HPV Test on oral rinse specimens as an early, non-invasive tool for HPV-related OPSCC.

Methods

Oral rinse specimens were collected from 187 patients (45 with OPSCC, 61 with oral cavity SCC (OCSCC) and 81 control patients who had benign or malignant thyroid nodules) treated at MSKCC. The Cobas® HPV Test was used to detect 14 high-risk HPV types in these samples. Performance of the HPV Test was correlated with p16 tumor immunohistochemistry as gold standard.

Results

91.1% of the oropharynx cancer patients had p16 positive tumors compared to 3.3% of oral cavity cancer. Of the 81 control patients, 79 (97.5%) had no HPV in their oral rinse giving a specificity of the HPV test of 98%. For the combined oral cavity oropharynx cancer cohort, the sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value and negative predictive value of the HPV Test were 79.1%, 90.5%, 85.0% and 86.4% respectively when p16 immunohistochemistry was used as the reference.

Conclusion

The Cobas® HPV Test on oral rinse is a highly specific and potentially sensitive test for oropharyngeal cancer and may be a potentially useful screening test for early oropharyngeal cancer.

Impact

We describe an oral rinse test for the detection of HPV related oropharyngeal cancer.

Prevalence and types of high-risk human papillomaviruses in head and neck cancers from Bangladesh

BACKGROUND

There is a dramatic rise in the incidence of Human papillomavirus (HPV) - associated head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC) in the world, with considerable variation by geography, gender and ethnicity. Little is known about the situation in Bangladesh, where tobacco- and areca nut-related head and neck cancers (HNCs) are the most common cancers in men. We aimed to determine the prevalence of HPV in HNSCC in Bangladesh and to explore the possible value of cell cycle markers in clinical diagnostic settings.

METHODS

One hundred and ninety six archival HNSCC tissue samples were analysed for the presence of HPV DNA. The DNA quality was assured, and then amplified using a nested PCR approach. The typing of HPV was performed by automated DNA sequencing. Cellular markers p53, Cyclin D1 and pRb were tested on all samples by immunohistochemistry (IHC), as well as p16 as a putative surrogate for the detection of HPV.

RESULTS

HPV DNA was detected in 36/174 (~21%) samples: 36% of cancers from the oropharynx; 31% of oral cancers, and 22% from the larynx. HPV-16 was most common, being present in 33 samples, followed by HPV-33 (2 samples) and HPV-31 (1 sample). Twenty-eight out of 174 samples were positive for p16, predominantly in HPV-positive tissues (p < 0.001). No statistically significant association was observed between the cellular markers and HPV DNA positive cases. However, p16 positivity had excellent predictive value for the presence of HPV by PCR.

CONCLUSION

There is a significant burden of HPV-associated HNSCC in Bangladesh, particularly in the oropharynx but also in oral and laryngeal cancers. Whilst a combination of PCR-based DNA detection and p16 IHC is useful, the latter has excellent specificity, acceptable sensitivity and good predictive value for carriage of HPV in this population and should be used for prognostic evaluation and treatment planning of all HNSCC patients in South Asia, as in the Western world.

Delineation of the HPV11E6 and HPV18E6 Pathways in Initiating Cellular Transformation

Although high-risk human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are the major risk factors for cervical cancer they have been associated with several other cancers, such as head and neck and oral cancers. Since integration of low-risk HPV11 DNA has been demonstrated in esophageal tumor genomes, this study compared the effects of low-risk HPV11E6 and high-risk HPV18E6 on cellular gene expression. The HPV11E6 and HPV18E6 genes were cloned into an adenoviral vector and expressed in human keratinocytes (HaCaT) in order to investigate early events and to eliminate possible artifacts introduced by selective survival of fast growing cells in stable transfection experiments. HPV11E6 had very little effect on p21 and p53 gene expression, while HPV18E6 resulted in a marked reduction in both these proteins. Both HPV11E6 and HPV18E6 enabled growth of colonies in soft agar, but the level of colony formation was higher in HPV18E6 infected cells. DNA microarray analysis identified significantly differentially regulated genes involved in the cellular transformation signaling pathways. These findings suggest that HPV11E6 and HPV18E6 are important in initiating cellular transformation via deregulation of signaling pathways such as PI3K/AKT and pathways that are directly involved in DNA damage repair, cell survival, and cell proliferation. This study shows that the low-risk HPV11E6 may have similar effects as the high-risk HPV18E6 during the initial stages of infection, but at a much reduced level.

T cell-mediated antitumor immune response eliminates skin tumors induced by mouse papillomavirus, MmuPV1

Previous studies of naturally occurring mouse papillomavirus (PV) MmuPV1-induced tumors in B6.Cg-Foxn1^nu/nu mice suggest that T cell deficiency is necessary and sufficient for the development of such tumors. To confirm this, MmuPV1-induced tumors were transplanted from T cell-deficient mice into immunocompetent congenic mice. Consequently, the tumors regressed and eventually disappeared. The elimination of MmuPV1-infected skin/tumors in immunocompetent mice was consistent with the induction of antitumor T cell immunity. This was confirmed by adoptive cell experiments using hyperimmune splenocytes collected from graft-recipient mice. In the present study, such splenocytes were injected into T cell-deficient mice infected with MmuPV1, and they eliminated both early-stage and fully formed tumors. We clearly show that anti-tumor T cell immunity activated during tumor regression in immunocompetent mice effectively eliminates tumors developing in T cell-deficient congenic mice. The results corroborate the notion that PV-induced tumors are strongly linked to the immune status of the host, and that PV antigens are major anti-tumor antigens. Successful anti-PV T cell responses should, therefore, lead to effective anti-tumor immune therapy in human PV-infected patients.

Human papillomavirus infection in oral potentially malignant disorders and cancer

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infects keratinocytes in the mucosa or skin, and persistent infection with HPV may lead to premalignant lesions and invasive cancer, especially cervical cancer. It has also been hypothesized that HPV infection is an etiological factor of oral squamous cell carcinoma and oral precancerous disorders such as lichen planus, leukoplakia, and erythroplakia. A high percentage of HPV in oral lesions supports the possible viral contribution, but an association of HPV infection with these lesions remains to be established. The current paper will update the latest progress of HPV infection in several oral potentially malignant disorders and oral squamous cell carcinoma and discuss the impact of HPV infection on the progression of oral potentially malignant disorders.