A Comparative Study on HPV-negative Vs. HPV-positive OPSCC

Summary

This project explores the differences between HPV-positive and HPV-negative oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), focusing on causes, pathology, prognosis, and treatment outcomes. HPV-positive OPSCC is primarily caused by persistent infection with HPV16, leading to oncogenesis via viral oncoproteins E6 and E7, which disrupt tumor suppressor proteins p53 and Rb1. In contrast, HPV-negative OPSCC is associated with lifestyle factors such as tobacco use, alcohol consumption, and betel quid chewing, leading to mutations in tumor suppressor genes like TP53, Rb1, and oncogenes like KRAS and PIK3R1. Epidemiological data indicates that HPV-positive OPSCC has a better prognosis, with a 5-year survival rate of 75% compared to 50% for HPV-negative OPSCC. HPV-negative cases tend to have a higher mutation burden, leading to faster tumor progression and metastasis. Diagnosis involves PCR testing for HPV E6/E7 proteins, imaging techniques, and biopsy analysis. Treatments for HPV-positive OPSCC include antiviral therapies (e.g., Cidofovir), surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation, while HPV-negative OPSCC relies on chemotherapy and radiation.

HPV16 infecting an epithelial cell in the oropharyngeal cavity where viral DNA undergoes integration
(Figure representation created by the author:Siddharth Mitra)

Video Presentation

Impact Statement

My name is Siddharth Mitra and during my program with the Elio Academy of Biomedical Sciences, I worked on a project that carried out a comparitive analysis between HPV-positive and HPV-negative OPSCC. This analysis was carried out with the lens of pathology and etiology with a strong focus on patient data. Through this program I gained an in-depth insight into what biomedical research truly looks like and the process behind it, which helps me better prepare for future research. Being mentored through this research journey gave me an insightful summer experience that I am extremely grateful for.

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By: Siddharth Mitra. The opinions expressed here are the views of the writer and do not necessarily reflect the views and opinions of Elio Academy.

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