Human papillomavirus antigen-expressing tumor cell

Human papillomavirus antigen-expressing tumor cell refers to a malignant or transformed epithelial cell that contains and expresses viral proteins (notably E6, E7) from high-risk HPV types integrated into the host genome. These viral antigens drive transformation by interfering with tumor suppressor pathways (e.g., p53, pRb) and facilitate immune evasion by downregulating antigen presentation, disrupting innate and adaptive immune signaling, and shaping an immunosuppressive tumor microenvironment. These cells are primary targets of HPV-specific immunotherapies, including therapeutic vaccines and T cell-based therapies, and are relevant across multiple cancer types where HPV integration is etiological.

Other names

HPV-positive tumor cellHPV antigen-positive cancer cellHPV+ tumor cell

Induction of antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) response against HPV antigens (E6/E7) and activation of immune clearance of tumor cells bearing HPV antigens.