Pathology · single question
Where does HPV remain dormant (latent) in the body?
Show answer and explanation
Correct answer: A. Basal layer/basement membrane of epithelial cells
✓ A) Basal layer/basement membrane of epithelial cells is correct.
HPV establishes latency in the basal cells of squamous epithelium (the proliferating stem cell layer). The virus integrates its DNA into the host genome (or remains episomal) in basal keratinocytes. As cells differentiate and migrate toward the surface, viral replication increases. The basement membrane/basal cell layer is the viral reservoir. This is distinct from herpesviruses (HSV, VZV), which are latent in neural ganglia. HPV's basal cell tropism is why treatment must target this layer for cure.
HPV establishes latency in the basal cells of squamous epithelium (the proliferating stem cell layer). The virus integrates its DNA into the host genome (or remains episomal) in basal keratinocytes. As cells differentiate and migrate toward the surface, viral replication increases. The basement membrane/basal cell layer is the viral reservoir. This is distinct from herpesviruses (HSV, VZV), which are latent in neural ganglia. HPV's basal cell tropism is why treatment must target this layer for cure.