Association of sociodemographic profile, reproductive behavior, and TLR9 gene polymorphism with cervical high-risk human papillomavirus infection among filipino women in Tondo, Philippines

Date of Publication

7-2025

Document Type

Bachelor's Thesis

Degree Name

Bachelor of Science in Biology major in Medical Biology

Subject Categories

Biology | Medicine and Health Sciences

College

College of Science

Department/Unit

Biology

Thesis Advisor

Ourlad Alzeus G. Tantengco

Defense Panel Chair

Roberto M. Demigillo Jr.

Defense Panel Member

Florabelle D. Querubin
Raymond Vincent F. Castillo

Abstract (English)

Cervical cancer, predominantly driven by persistent infection with high-risk human papillomavirus (HR-HPV), remains a major health burden among Filipino women, particularly in underserved communities like Tondo, Manila. Toll-like receptor 9 (TLR9) plays a crucial role in antiviral immunity by recognizing unmethylated CpG motifs in viral DNA, initiating immune responses that may influence HPV clearance or persistence. This study investigated the genetic diversity of TLR9—focusing on single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) rs187084 and rs352140—and their association with HR-HPV infection among women aged ≥ 21 in Tondo. Sociodemographic, clinical, and behavioral data were also analyzed to assess risk association. Using DNA extraction, polymerase chain reaction (PCR) amplification, Sanger sequencing, and statistical tests in a retrospective cross-sectional study, TLR9 variants were genotyped from cervical swab samples. Sociodemographic and behavioral factors showed no clear links to HPV status, though contraceptive use showed a near-significant trend (OR=3.384, p=0.054) and HPV positive individuals also reported more lifetime sexual partners, as reflected in a significant Kruskal-Wallis result. No significant associations were found between TLR9 polymorphisms and HR-HPV infection or specific genotypes. Although for host genetics, the TT genotype of rs187084 (72.1%) and CC genotype of rs352140 (66.7%) in the TLR9 gene were the most common across HR-HPV positive groups. Among the HR-HPV genotypes detected, HPV 52 was the most prevalent, found in 41% of positive cases, followed by HPV 16, 51, 58, and 18. Overall, while TLR9 variants and most socio-demographic factors showed no clear influence, the observed behavioral patterns suggest possible risk factors for HPV infection and remain important considerations for HPV prevention efforts. Further studies with larger sample sizes and expanded genetic targets are recommended to better understand how host genetics may influence immune response and susceptibility to HPV infection.

Abstract Format

html

Abstract (Filipino)

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Abstract Format

html

Language

English

Format

Electronic

Keywords

Papillomaviruses; Genetic polymorphisms; Natural immunity; Polymerase chain reaction

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Embargo Period

8-7-2025

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