Human Papillomavirus 16 DNA Methylation Patterns and Investigation of Integration Status in Head and Neck Cancer Cases

Persistent high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is a pivotal factor in the progression of cervical cancer. In recent years, an increasing interest has emerged comprehending influence HPV on head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC). Notably, it well established that HPV-associated HNSCC show cases with distinct molecular clinical attributes compared to HPV-negative cases. The present study delves into epigenetic landscape HPV16, specifically its L1 gene untranslated region (UTR), through pyrosequencing, while HPV16 DNA physical status was evaluated using E2/E6 ratio analysis HPV16-positive FFPE biopsies. Our findings reveal substantial methylation across six sites within seven UTR. Specifically, percentages two CpG (7136, 7145) exhibit significant associations tumor histological grade (p < 0.01), proving concurrent multiple sites. not correlated viral genome or characteristics. This first examines modifications Greek patients. suggest orchestrated modulation among specific sites, impacting expression intricate virus–host interactions.