Retrieval of HPV oncogenes E6 and E7 mRNA from cervical specimens using a manual open technology protocol

BACKGROUND: HPV oncogenes mRNA detection gains momentum as an adjuvant for HPV-related cervical abnormalities diagnosis, but is based on costly detection assays not allowing viral type targeting. OBJECTIVE: To assess detection rate of HPV oncogenes E6/E7 mRNA from cervical specimens using a manual, open technology, fully customizable protocol and determine whether HPV-related epidemiological features influence mRNA retrieval. We reviewed literature and compared our retrieval rate with automated technologies. METHODS: We used 60 samples positive for HPV DNA types 16, 18, 31 and/or 45. We extracted mRNA with a TRizol-based protocol, and tested mRNA purity and concentration using light absorbance. We reverse-transcribed mRNA into cDNA for E6/7 detection. RESULTS: HPV oncogenes E6/E7 mRNA was retrieved from 36 (60%) out of 60 specimens. No HPV load-related clinical or epidemiological feature was significantly associated with mRNA retrieval. Presence of HPV-DNA 16/18 was associated with mRNA retrieval (OR = 9.08; 95% CI 1.26 to 65.32 for HPV 16; and 18.2; IC95% 1.86 to 391.44 for HPV 18). CONCLUSIONS: The open-technology protocol yielded an mRNA detection rate similar to that of automated technologies. Advantages are lower costs and target HPV type customization.