HPV16 oncoprotein regulates the translocation of β-catenin via activation of EGFR

Background To understand the mechanism of frequent and early lymph node metastasis in high risk human papillomavirus (HPV)-associated oropharyngeal squamous cell carcinoma (OPSCC), we investigated whether β-catenin is regulated by HPV oncoprotein and contributes to OPSCC metastasis.