Human papillomavirus, cervical carcinogenesis and chemoprevention with Indole derivates - a review of pathomechanisms

Cervical cancer is the second most common female cancer worldwide with high risk Human Papillomavirus (HPV) infection playing an essential aetiological role. Oestrogen interacts with HPV at a cellular level causing cell growth and inhibition of apoptosis. Indole derivatives, formed during digestion of cruciferous vegetables, have been shown to have chemopreventative properties inhibiting HPV transcription and influencing oestrogen metabolism. This review describes the interactions between HPV, oestrogen and indole derivatives. Further clinical research is required to evaluate the chemo-preventative properties of these agents.