Using Metabolomics to Fight Cervical Cancer

Dr. Melissa Herbst-Kralovetz, associate professor at the College of Medicine - Phoenix, led a team of interdisciplinary researchers in the identification of three compounds that distinguish cervical cancer patients. The team completed a first-of-its-kind study that could aid in the treatment, diagnosis, and prevention of cervical cancer by identifying cervicovaginal metabolic signatures, or “fingerprints,” that distinguish patients with HPV, precancerous cervical conditions and cancer. Through integration of cutting-edge analysis including metabolomics, the team was able to reveal new information about viruses, bacteria, inflammation and disease impact on metabolic signatures. Levels of metabolites often change in response to disease progression, and metabolic fingerprinting has the potential to be used for the development of future diagnostics, preventatives or treatments for cervical cancer.