# Assessing the Methylation Status of Two Potential Key Factors Involved in Cervical Oncogenesis

## TL;DR

This study explores how DNA methylation changes in two genes may indicate cervical cancer progression, offering potential new biomarkers for early detection.

## Contribution

The study identifies a correlation between decreased promoter methylation and increased gene expression in cervical cancer progression.

## Key findings

- EIF4G3 and SF3B1 mRNA expression levels are highest in squamous cell carcinoma samples.
- Promoter methylation of both genes is inversely correlated with their expression levels.
- Methylation levels decrease from normal to cancerous cervical tissues.

## Abstract

(1) Background: Cervical cancer, caused mainly by high-risk Human Papillomavirus (hrHPV), is a significant global health issue. While a Pap smear remains a reliable method for early detection, identifying new biomarkers to stratify the risk is crucial. For this purpose, extensive research has been conducted on detecting DNA methylation. (2) Methods: This cross-sectional study aimed to assess the expression levels of EIF4G3 and SF3B1 in precursor lesions and cervical tumor tissues through qRT-PCR and evaluate the methylation status of their promoters through bisulfite conversion. (3) Results: Both genes showed similar mRNA expression patterns, with the highest levels observed in squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) samples (p < 0.0001). Additionally, methylation analysis indicated increased percentages in the control group for both factors. Notably, the expression levels of both genes were inversely correlated with promoter methylation (EIF4G3—p = 0.0016; SF3B1—p < 0.0001). (4) Conclusions: Regarding the methylation pattern for both genes, we observe a decreasing trend from NILM to SCC patients. Therefore, we concluded that the decrease in methylation at the promoter level for both genes could be an indicator of abnormal cytology.