Amplification and specific detection of transforming gene region of human papillomavirus 16, 18 and 33 in cervical carcinoma by means of the polymerase chain reaction.

We have established a highly sensitive method for specific detection of human papillomavirus (HPV) 16, 18 and 33, by using the polymerase chain reaction (PCR). A HPV-related sequence (140 bp) in the E6 transforming region was specifically amplified and detected by gel electrophoresis and by the use of a specific oligonucleotide probe. The PCR could detect 10(5)-10(6) copies per cell (maximum sensitivity). Furthermore, HPV 16, 18 and 33 DNAs were synthesized in a common reaction solution and specifically detected by HPV type-specific probes. The PCR detected the HPV sequence from tissues which were negative to Southern hybridization. This detection technique may contribute significantly to the precise analysis of HPV in small proliferative lesions in the cervix.