Overexpression ofVEGF165is associated with poor prognosis of cervical cancer

Background Cervical cancer is a major health hazard to Indian women. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is an established risk factor for cervical carcinogenesis. However, understanding the cervical cancer biology beyond HPV infection is very crucial to predict aggressive behavior, prognosis, treatment response and survival. In the present study, we explored the role of vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGFA) isoforms,VEGFCandVEGFDin cervical cancer progression and its association with HPV 16 and 18 infections. Material and Methods A total of 110 cervical cancer tissues and 50 normal cervical tissues were collected for the study. Reverse transcription-polymerase chain reaction was employed to analyze tissueVEGFAisoforms,VEGFCandVEGFDexpression. Results VEGF165was significantly higher, whereasVEGFCandVEGFDwere significantly lower in malignant cervical carcinoma tissues as compared to normal cervix tissues. Expression levels ofVEGF121andVEGFCwere significantly associated with type of tumor growth whileVEGF165was significantly associated with lymph node metastasis.VEGF165transcript levels were significantly higher in patients with squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) and developed recurrence. Most strikingly, higherVEGF165expression was significantly associated with worst disease-free survival (DFS) specifically in patients with SCC. Conclusion Association ofVEGF165with lymph node metastasis, disease recurrence and worst DFS indicated thatVEGF165is an important prognostic factor in cervical carcinogenesis.