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The progression of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection to cervical neoplasia is likely influenced by the immune response. Toll-like receptors (TLRs) induce secretion of cytokines and activation of T cells that may play an important role in cervical immunity to HPV infection. In this study the investigators propose: (1) To examine the association among TLR expression, TLR-associated cytokines that mediate innate immunity (IFN-a, TNF, IL-6 and IL-8) and clearance of incident HPV infection; (2) to examine the association among TLR expression, TLR-associated cytokines that induce and mediate adaptive immunity (IFN-y, ILs-12, 23, and 27) and clearance of incident HPV infection; and (3) to examine the association among TLR induced Thl responses measured in cervical samples, and HPV specific CMI responses detected in peripheral blood (PB) and clearance. Cervical samples will be obtained from study participants who have been previously tested for HPV and have undergone sampling for HPV DNA. The knowledge gained from this research will aid the development of vaccines and therapies and also will provide information on immune responses arising in the mucosal epithelium.
For more information contact NCI Program Director: Vaurice Starks
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