HPV-related DNA methylation alterations shape head and neck tumor microenvironment in space and time
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ABSTRACT: This study explores DNA methylation profile and their impact on tumor microenvironment (TME) of head and neck cancer (HNC). By integrating advanced high-throughput platforms, including Human Methylation 450K BeadChip microarrays and single-cell imaging mass cytometry (IMC), we identified distinct methylation signatures and immune landscapes in HNC associated with HPV-positive vs. HPV-negative tumors. Differentially methylated sites between HPV-positive and HPV-negative tumors showed enrichment for immune system regulatory pathways, with marked signatures of T lymphocyte regulation. To better understand the relationship between DNA methylation and tumor microenvironment regulation, we sought to evaluate the immunological components from a spatial perspective and observed that in HPV-positive tumors, T lymphocytes appear to activate a self-regulatory mechanism, while in HPV-negative tumors this mechanism is blocked by the action of fibroblasts, which are the cells that interact most with T lymphocytes. The spatial dynamics within the TME regulated by epigenetic mechanisms pave the way for more precise clinical decision-making and personalized therapies for HNC patients.
ORGANISM(S): Homo sapiens
PROVIDER: GSE318768 | GEO | 2026/02/11
REPOSITORIES: GEO
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