Human papillomavirus major capsid protein L1 (non-vaccine oncogenic types) (HPV L1)

The Human papillomavirus (HPV) major capsid protein L1 is the primary structural component of the HPV virion, forming an icosahedral shell that protects the viral genome (UniProt P03101). In the context of non-vaccine oncogenic types, this target refers to the L1 proteins of high-risk HPV genotypes—such as HPV 35, 39, 51, 56, 59, 66, and 68—that are not included in current widely used vaccines like the 9-valent Gardasil 9 (CDC, 2021). These proteins are essential for the viral life cycle, mediating initial attachment to host cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans and facilitating viral entry (PubMed 23199267). While current vaccines provide protection against the most common oncogenic types (16 and 18) and several others, the remaining high-risk types still contribute to approximately 10% of cervical cancers worldwide (NCI, 2015). Research into targeting these non-vaccine L1 proteins focuses on developing next-generation multivalent vaccines, such as 11-valent and 14-valent candidates, to achieve near-universal protection against HPV-related malignancies (PubMed 34153456). Additionally, some non-vaccine types show limited cross-reactivity with antibodies induced by current vaccines, highlighting the need for broader coverage (PubMed 28431134). Therapeutic strategies also include the use of entry inhibitors like carrageenan, which interact with the L1 protein to block infection (PubMed 20660189). Overall, the L1 protein of these neglected oncogenic types represents a critical gap in current preventive oncology.

Other names

Major capsid protein L1HPV L1 proteinL1 capsid proteinHPV L1 (non-vaccine types)High-risk HPV L1 proteins

Induction of neutralizing antibodies that bind to the L1 protein, preventing viral attachment to host cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans and subsequent entry.