Introduction/Objective. The aim of this study was to investigate the
distribution of genotypes and alleles of proinflammatory cytokines TNF,
IFN-?, and IL-12 and their effect on the development of a cervical illness
and also to determine their associated influence with cofactors in HR HPV
positive women in Serbia. Methods. We have investigated 24 women and based
on the cytological findings they were classified into four groups: PAP II,
ASCUS, LSIL and HSIL. Analysis of TNF, IL-12 and IFN-? polymorphisms was
performed using Real-time PCR TaqMan method. Statistical analysis was
performed using parametric and non-parametric tests and correlation and
multiple regression analysis. Results. Significantly higher frequency of
high production related TNF AA genotype was observed in severe dysplasia.
The correlation between TNF gene polymorphism and cervical findings were
highly significant. There was a moderate, significant correlation between
low production IFN-g AA genotype and earlier cervical infections. There was
a significant correlation between the IL-12 polymorphism of the low
production IL-12 AA genotype and cervical lesions. Conclusion Results of
this study show that HSIL is associated with significantly higher frequency
of high production TNF AA genotype. It is known that polymorphisms of
certain cytokine genes encoding proteins involved in Th1 and Th2 cellular
responses may be associated with better or worse prognosis of cervical
disease in women with persistent HR HPV infection. Therefore, they may be
considered as biomarkers that may have a predictive role in the development
of cervical cancer.