Human papillomavirus E7 oncoprotein (HPV E7)

The human papillomavirus E7 oncoprotein is a small, acidic viral protein (~100 amino acids) expressed by high-risk HPV types such as HPV16 and HPV18[2]. E7 lacks intrinsic enzymatic activity but disrupts cellular processes by binding to the retinoblastoma tumor suppressor protein (pRb), leading to its proteasomal degradation, uncontrolled activation of E2F transcription factors, cell cycle progression, and genomic instability[1][2][3]. E7 also interacts with other host proteins to inhibit apoptosis and evade immune surveillance, contributing to malignant transformation of infected epithelial cells[1][6][7]. E7 protein is almost universally expressed in HPV-associated cancers and is considered essential for both initiation and maintenance of the transformed phenotype[2]. Owing to these properties, E7 is an intense focus of research as a therapeutic and diagnostic target for HPV-driven malignancies; several therapeutic vaccines and experimental inhibitors are in preclinical and clinical development[1].

Other names

E7 proteinHPV E7Papillomavirus E7 oncoprotein

Vaccines induce cytotoxic T cell responses against E7-expressing cells. Small molecules or peptides (experimental) inhibit E7 binding to retinoblastoma protein (pRb), restoring cell cycle control[1][3].