Comparative quantitative analysis of 14 types of human papillomavirus by real-time polymerase chain reaction monitoring Invader reaction (Q-Invader assay)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is associated with several cervical diseases. A simple, rapid, cost-effective assay for identifying viral genotypes would greatly aid efforts for early detection and disease prevention. A real-time polymerase chain reaction monitoring Invader reaction assay (Q-Invader assay) was developed for genotyping and comparative quantitative analysis of 14 high-risk HPV genotypes (16, 18, 31, 33, 35, 39, 45, 51, 52, 56, 58, 59, 67, and 68). A total of 131 cervical samples containing HPV in Japan were examined by Q-Invader assay, and the results were compared with those from sequencing with consensus and genotype-specific primers. Genotypes determined by Q-Invader agreed with those of sequencing in all samples. Coinfections with multiple high-risk genotypes were correctly identified by Q-Invader assay in 27 samples. In addition, the relative ratios of the genotypes were determined. Thus, Q-Invader assay is a useful tool for genotyping and comparative quantitative analysis of high-risk HPV types.