Nested PCR with the PGMY09/11 and GP5 ⁺/6 ⁺ primer sets improves detection of HPV DNA in cervical samples

Based on epidemiological and research evidence, HPV has a causal role in cervical carcinogenesis. Several HPV detection methods exist to date; the most commonly used method for detection of genital HPVs consists of nested PCR using the MY09/11 and GP5 ⁺/6 ⁺ primer sets (MY/GP ⁺). Recently, the PGMY09/11 primer set, a modified version of the MY09/11 primer set, was introduced for single PCR and was found to detect a wider range of HPV types. The next logical step was taken and the efficacy of nested PCR using the PGMY09/11 and GP5 ⁺/6 ⁺ primer sets (PGMY/GP ⁺) to detect HPV in cervical samples was evaluated. In this comparative study, nested PCR using the novel PGMY/GP ⁺ primer set combination was found to be more type sensitive than the nested PCR with the MY/GP ⁺ primer sets, detecting a wider range of HPV types, low copy HPVs, and better characterizing samples infected with multiple strains of HPV. Standardization and use of the PGMY/GP ⁺ PCR system could aid physicians in providing more efficient HPV screening and better treatment for patients.