An investigation into the associaton of HPV and GI cancers
Research type
Research Study
Full title
An investigation into the association of Human Papillomavirus and Gastrointestinal carcinomas
IRAS ID
250010
Contact name
Helen Matthews
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Kingston University Hospitals NHS Trust
Duration of Study in the UK
3 years, 11 months, 31 days
Research summary
Upper gastrointestinal (UGI) (oesophageal and gastric) cancers are major health problems worldwide occupying most frequent causes of cancer-related mortality. The reasons for the incidence of these cancers are poorly understood. Although an aetiological role for certain microorganisms has been implicated as risk factors for UGI cancers, so far the main factors remain elusive.
Infectious agents have been implicated, as either direct carcinogens or promoters. In particular, HPVs are recognised as carcinogenic agents in humans. HPVs are a large family of common viruses that infect epithelial surface (skin, genital) and cause benign hyperproliferative lesions (known as warts or papillomas). Although HPV infections are normally cleared by the immune system, albeit after a long delay period, persistence of HPV can cause a progression to malignant disease under appropriate environmental conditions.This study will investigate the presence of human papillomavirus (HPV) in benign and malignant Gastrointestinal tissues, and correlate this with prognostic factors for this cancer. Participants will consent preoperatively to allow samples to be taken during surgery. The collection of benign (hyperplastic) and cancerous gastrointestinal tissues will be performed following removal of tissue at surgery. Samples will be linked anonymously, so they remain unidentifiable at collection for transportation to Kingston University of London for the analysis in the School of Life sciences, Pharmacy and Chemistry in a tightly sealed container. Upon the completion of analysis samples will be completely destroyed. Only the consultant, who is a member of the clinical care team, will have access to patient information. Laboratory research staff will not have any access to patient information, so that the study remains blind to this group of researchers. Results on the presence of HPV will be analysed and relevant statistical analysis will be performed to establish a correlation of HPV and gastrointestinal cancers.
REC name
North West - Liverpool Central Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
19/NW/0255
Date of REC Opinion
7 May 2019
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion