Circulating human papillomavirus (HPV) DNA for post-treatment surveillance of HPV-related oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV-OPSCC)
Role
Co Investigator
Description
HPV is an established cause of the majority of oropharyngeal cancer cases in Australia, with incidence rates continuing to rise. Despite its favourable prognosis with current treatments, post-treatment surveillance for HPV-OPSCC remains challenging, requiring frequent visits to tertiary hospitals for clinical assessments and imaging. This imposes a significant burden on patients in terms of time and cost, as well as on the healthcare system. Models suggest that incorporating circulating tumour biomarkers into surveillance protocols offers a more cost-effective alternative while maintaining clinical efficacy [1]. The detection of HPV DNA in the blood (circulating HPV DNA, or cHPV-DNA) has shown promise as a non-invasive biomarker that can reliably identify disease recurrence before clinical symptoms or imaging abnormalities arise [2]. This early detection has the potential to enable timely salvage treatments, improving survival rates and reducing treatment-associated morbidity. Our project aims to establish a highly sensitive and specific method for detecting cHPV-DNA in patient blood using state-of-the-art biotechnology, such as digital droplet PCR (ddPCR) or next-generation sequencing (NGS). By optimizing assay sensitivity and validating its clinical utility, we intend to create a robust platform for post-treatment monitoring of cancer recurrence. This research will also explore the integration of cHPV-DNA testing into current surveillance frameworks, with the goal of reducing patient visits and reliance on resource-intensive imaging. Additionally, the project has the potential to contribute to the development of personalized, response-adapted treatment strategies for HPV-OPSCC, by identifying patients at higher risk of recurrence or those who may benefit from de-escalated therapy.
Date
01 Jun 2025 - 31 May 2027
Project Type
N/A
Keywords
HPV-DNA;oropharyngeal;squamous cell carcinoma
Funding Body
Queensland Health
Amount
124955
Project Team
Ludwig Lopata;Ulf Schmitz