E7 protein of human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV18 E7)

The E7 protein of human papillomavirus type 18 is a small (~100 amino acids), highly conserved viral oncoprotein essential for HPV-induced cellular transformation[1][7]. It contains conserved regions (CR1 and CR2) that share homology with other viral oncoproteins and a zinc-binding domain required for protein stability and function[1][7]. E7 binds and degrades the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor (pRb), releasing E2F transcription factors, driving cells into DNA replication and S-phase, which leads to uncontrolled cell proliferation and increased genomic instability[1][7][8]. E7 also contributes to immune evasion, inhibits apoptosis, and is consistently expressed in HPV-infected and transformed cells, making it an important biomarker and therapeutic target[1][3][5][7]. Therapeutic strategies include peptide inhibitors, vaccines, and monoclonal antibodies, though challenges remain with specificity, immune activation, and reliable detection[1][3][5].

Other names

HPV18 E7E7 oncoproteinHPV E7 protein

Immune-mediated cytotoxicity (therapeutic vaccines and antibodies aim to trigger host immunity against E7-expressing cells); Protein-protein interaction inhibition (experimental: block E7’s binding to pRb or other host proteins)