Human papillomavirus type 11 L1 capsid protein (HPV-11 L1) (HPV-11 L1)

The Human papillomavirus type 11 (HPV-11) L1 capsid protein is the primary structural component of the HPV-11 virion, a low-risk HPV type associated with genital warts and recurrent respiratory papillomatosis (Wikipedia). This protein spontaneously self-assembles into pentameric capsomeres, which further organize into an icosahedral capsid that encapsulates the viral genome (UniProt P04012). Biologically, the L1 protein mediates the initial attachment of the virus to host cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans, facilitating viral entry via endocytosis (NIH/PubMed). In the context of therapeutics, recombinant HPV-11 L1 proteins are used to form virus-like particles (VLPs) that serve as the primary antigenic component in prophylactic vaccines such as Gardasil and Gardasil 9 (FDA/CDC). These vaccines work by inducing high titers of type-specific neutralizing antibodies that block the virus from infecting basal keratinocytes (NIH/PubMed). While highly effective at preventing new infections and associated diseases, these L1-targeted vaccines do not provide therapeutic benefits for individuals with pre-existing HPV-11 infections (CDC). The safety profile of these vaccines is well-established, with common side effects limited to injection site reactions and syncope (CDC).

Other names

Major capsid protein L1HPV11 L1L1 protein of HPV-11Late protein L1

Prophylactic vaccination using recombinant L1 virus-like particles (VLPs) to induce neutralizing antibodies that prevent viral entry into host cells.