HPV as an Inducer of Epigenetic Changes in Cervical Cancer
摘要
Cervical cancer is still one of the most frequent malignancies among women in the world, despite advancements in its prevention and treatment. Infection by HPV is the major risk factor in progression of cervical cancer. Stable, long-lasting alterations in DNA known as epigenetic modifications are a normal evolutionary process of environmental adaptations. Through the activation of oncogenes, the silencing of tumor suppressor genes, and the aggravation of abnormalities in DNA repair pathways, epigenetic alterations may play a crucial role in cancer cells. As known, persistent high-risk HPV infection is directly linked to cervical cancer. Oncoproteins coded by HPV can alter epigenetic mechanisms and aid in progression of cervical cancer. These alterations include DNA methylation, histone modification, and noncoding RNA-induced gene silencing. Recent developments regarding the role of epigenetic modifications induced by HPV in cervical cancer are compiled in this book chapter.