Impact of HIV on HPV-related cancers in men who have sex with men: a review

Abstract

Co-infection with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) significantly increases the incidence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection and HPV-related cancers among men who have sex with men (MSM). Conversely, HPV infection can also influence HIV acquisition rates. HIV-induced immune suppression may affect chromosomal stability, gene expression, protein function and other molecular components in MSM with HPV-related cancers. Additionally, HIV infection also alters cellular mechanisms by compromising immune responses and epithelial integrity. In this review, we reviewed the influence of HIV on specific HPV-related cancers in MSM, including oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma, penile cancer, and anal cancer. We integrated epidemiological data from the past five years and discussed diagnosis and treatment strategies. Overall, our review offers crucial insights into the underlying molecular and cellular mechanisms of these co-infection MSM patients. Our review aims to assist future research in developing effective treatment strategies for MSM with HIV/HPV co-infection.

Keywords: MSM; cancer; co-infection; human immunodeficiency virus; human papillomavirus.

Figure 1

The carcinogenic progression of HPV-associated tumors resulting from HIV/HPV co-infection, including molecular and cellular mechanisms.

Figure 2

Diagram of Alterations at the molecular level of HPV-related cancers by HIV Infection (HIV infection can affect HPV-related tumor progression at the chromosomal, gene expression, and protein levels, and vice versa. LOH, Chromosomal heterozygous deletion; MSI, Microsatellite instability; HAART, Highly active antiretroviral therapy).

Figure 3

HIV infection promotes HPV infection. (HIV infection can disrupt epithelial tight junctions, thereby facilitating initial HPV infection. HPV enters epithelial basal cells with the help of surface proteins that bind to cellular receptors. The incorporation of HPV DNA into the host cell genome promotes abnormal cellular proliferation and differentiation).

Figure 4

Diagram of Alterations at the cellular level of HPV-related cancers by HIV Infection (HIV-related immunosuppression, involving immune cells such as T cells, DCs/LCs, NK cells and Macrophages, can delay HPV clearance and increase cancer risk by reactivating or sustaining HPV infection. HIV damages epithelial tight junctions, facilitating HPV penetration and promoting HPV-related cancers).