Cancer Genetics and Epigenetics 2024, Vol.12, No.1, 8-14 http://www.medscipublisher.com/index.php/cge 9 1 Etiological Study of Cervical Cancer 1.1 Relationship between HPV virus and cervical cancer The Human Papilloma virus (HPV) is a DNA virus transmitted through sexual contact, primarily responsible for the occurrence of cervical cancer. The extent and types of HPV infections lead to varying degrees of cervical lesions. Among them, high-risk HPV types (such as HPV16, 18) are the primary pathogens causing cervical cancer. The longer the duration of HPV infection, the higher the risk of cervical cancer development. HPV is prevalent and infects a wide range of individuals. In sexually active women, the incidence of HPV infection can exceed 70%. Although most people will clear themselves after being infected with HPV, some people may develop cervical cancer after infection. Hence, HPV infection stands as a major factor contributing to the development of cervical cancer (Schiffman et al., 2007). There are many mechanisms between HPV infection and cervical cancer, mainly including the following aspects: HPV virus infection can cause atypical proliferation of cervical epithelial cells, thereby forming cervical lesions. High-risk HPV types disrupt the gene expression in cervical cells, prompting cell proliferation and transformation, ultimately forming cancerous cells. HPV infection also inhibits the autophagy and apoptosis of cervical cells, thereby enhancing the survival and proliferation of cancer cells (Figure 1). Figure 1 The development process of cervical cancer (Source: https://zhuanlan.zhihu.com/p/63054607) At present, there are multiple HPV vaccines available in the market that effectively prevent HPV infection and the occurrence of cervical cancer. HPV vaccines can prevent infections caused by high-risk HPV types, thereby reducing the risk of cervical cancer. According to relevant research data, receiving the HPV vaccine can decrease the incidence of cervical cancer by over 70%. Additionally, screening and treating HPV infe ctions are crucial measures for preventing and treating cervical cancer. Currently, the World Health Organization recommends cervical cancer screening for women aged 20 to 65, which includes Pap smears and HPV testing. If cervical abnormalities or HPV infections are detected, timely treatment is necessary to prevent the progression of lesions into cervical cancer. HPV infection stands as one of the primary factors leading to cervical cancer. HPV vaccines, screening, and treatment are crucial means of preventing and treating cervical cancer, effectively reducing the risk of its occurrence (Zhou et al., 2023). 1.2 Genetic factors and cervical cancer incidence Genetic factors also play a role in the occurrence of cervical cancer. Some studies suggest an increased risk of developing cervical cancer for individuals with a family history of the disease. Moreover, specific gene mutations are associated with cervical cancer. For instance, mutations in the BRCA1 gene can elevate the risk of developing cervical cancer. BRCA1 is a tumor suppressor gene that inhibits tumor formation by regulating pathways involved in DNA repair and cell apoptosis. Mutations in BRCA1 may compromise its tumor-suppressing function, thereby
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