E6 oncoprotein from Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16 E6)

The E6 oncoprotein from Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV-16 E6) is a ~150-amino acid viral protein containing two zinc-finger domains essential for its structure and function. E6 is a critical driver of HPV-mediated carcinogenesis, primarily through its interaction with the cellular ubiquitin ligase E6AP, which leads to ubiquitination and degradation of the tumor suppressor protein p53. By disabling p53, E6 impairs apoptotic responses and allows unchecked cellular proliferation. E6 also augments telomerase activity, disrupts cell cycle control, and inhibits host immune recognition. E6 targets multiple PDZ domain-containing cellular proteins (e.g., Dlg, Scrib, MAGI-1), further contributing to oncogenic transformation and altered signaling. Due to its pivotal biological roles in cancer initiation and progression, HPV-16 E6 is considered a prime candidate for both diagnostic and therapeutic intervention in HPV-driven malignancies.

Other names

HPV16 E6HPV E6 proteinHPV type 16 E6 oncoprotein

Inhibition of E6–E6AP interaction to stabilize p53; Direct blocking of E6-p53 degradation pathway