| 20110091867 | METHOD TO IDENTIFY AND PREDICT DISEASE PROGRESSION OF HUMAN PAPILLOMA VIRUS-INFECTED LESIONS - The present invention provides a method for distinguishing benign human papilloma virus (HPV)-infected tissue from HPV-related lesions that have undergone malignant transformation. In one embodiment, the invention comprises a simple histochemical staining method and details a novel process for examining HPV-infected cells by determining susceptibility to enzymatic DNA digestion. Residual virion-associated DNA is seen only in benign HPV-infected lesions, while absence of residual DNA is seen with malignant transformation. In another embodiment, the invention comprises immunohistochemical assay methods for examining HPV-infected cells, utilizing antibodies to HPV L1 proteins. These methods can be used to predict biologic behavior of HPV-infected lesions. The invention can improve current cervical cancer screening programs, and improve clinical management of patients by defining malignant potential of HPV-infected tissue more accurately. | 04-21-2011 |