Genetic alterations in TRAF3 and CYLD that regulate nuclear factor κB and interferon signaling define head and neck cancer subsets harboring human papillomavirus.

Abstract

Intriguingly, recent genomic studies of HNSCC by The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) as well as other groups identified deletions or mutations in TNF-receptor associated factor (TRAF3) and Cylindromatosis (CYLD; Turban Tumor Syndrome) that were previously implicated in NF-κB and anti-viral Interferon responses. Hajek et al find genomic alterations in TRAF3/CYLD define distinct subsets of HPV+ HNSCC with associated activation of transcription factor NF-κB, episomal HPV infection of tumors, and improved survival of patients.