Human Mammary Tumor Virus Detection and APOBEC3G Expression in Breast Cancer: A Molecular Analysis of Iraqi FFPE Tissues

Document Type : New and original researches in the field of Microbiology.

Authors

1 Department Genetic Engineering, Institute of Genetic Engineering and Biotechnology for Postgraduate Studies, University of Baghdad, Baghdad, Iraq

2 Al-Elwiya Maternity Teaching Hospital, Ministry of Health

Abstract

Background: Breast cancer remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality globally, and emerging evidence implicates viral oncogenesis in its pathogenesis. Geographical variations in viral prevalence, such as Human Mammary Tumor Virus (HMTV) and host immune factors, such as APOBEC3G, highlight the need to explore their roles in carcinogenesis. Formalin-fixed paraffin-embedded (FFPE) tissues offer a valuable resource for retrospective molecular studies, although challenges, such as DNA degradation, persist. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the presence of HMTV and evaluate APOBEC3G expression in FFPE breast tissues from Iraqi women diagnosed with invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) and benign fibroadenoma to assess their potential roles in breast cancer development. Methodology: A total of 100 FFPE samples (50 IDC and 50 fibroadenomas) were analyzed. DNA extraction, singleplex PCR (for the HMTV env gene), and gel electrophoresis were performed for viral detection. APOBEC3G expression was quantified by RT-qPCR, using the 2−ΔΔCt method. Results: HMTV sequences were detected in 22/50 IDC cases (44%) but were absent in controls. APOBEC3G expression was significantly upregulated in IDC (mean fold-change: 0.829 vs. 0.238 in controls; p = 0.015). Conclusion: HMTV is associated with IDC, supporting its potential role in breast carcinogenesis. Elevated APOBEC3G expression in patients suggests its involvement in tumor progression, although inconsistencies in significance warrant further investigation. These findings underscore the interplay between viral factors and host immunity in breast cancer, advocating expanded studies to validate biomarkers and therapeutic targets.

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