Use of Single Cell Transcriptomic Techniques to Study the Role of High-Risk Human Papillomavirus Infection in Cervical Cancer

High-risk human papillomavirus (hrHPV) infection has been associated with a higher probability of progression to cervical cancer. However, several extensive studies have reported that the presence of hrHPV can lead to a better prognosis, but the mechanism of how this occurs is unclear. In this study, microbiological analysis was used to identify HPV infection as a factor for the prognosis of patients with cervical squamous cell carcinoma (CSCC). Comparing the interactions of HPV⁺ and HPV^- malignant cells with immune cells as well as the trajectory of malignant cells either with or without HPV, we found that most of the HPV⁺ cells are well differentiated while HPV^- cells appear to be hypo-fractionated. Using transcriptomic and immunostaining data, we validated a set of unfavourable molecules in the HPV^- CSCC cells, including KRT16, ITGB1, CXCR1, VEGFA, CRCT1 and TNFRSF10B/DR5. This study provides a basis for the development of a rational post-operative follow-up programme and the development of an appropriate treatment plan for patients with cervical cancer.