Human papillomavirus type 16 E7 peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex (HPV16 E7/HLA-A*02:01 complex)

The **Human papillomavirus type 16 (HPV16) E7 peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex** is a molecular complex formed by a specific peptide derived from the E7 oncoprotein of HPV16 and the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I protein HLA-A*02:01. This complex is presented on the surface of infected or transformed cells and can be recognized by cytotoxic T cells, making it a prominent target for cancer immunotherapy, especially for HPV16-driven malignancies such as cervical cancer. Only individuals with the HLA-A*02:01 allele present this epitope, which restricts the targetable patient population. Therapeutic strategies have focused on generating TCR-mimic antibodies, fusion proteins (e.g., CUE-101), and vaccines targeting this complex, aiming to direct immune attack specifically to HPV16 E7-expressing cells. The specificity of antibody or T-cell receptor recognition of the HPV16 E7 (often the 11–19 YMLDLQPET or 11–20 YMLDLQPETT sequence) bound to HLA-A*02:01 is critical for efficacy and safety. The frequency and density of this complex on tumor cells, as well as HLA type, influence the success of such targeted approaches.

Other names

HPV16-E7 peptide/HLA-A2 complexHPV16-E7/MHC class I complexHPV16-E7/HLA-A*02:01 peptide complexHPV16 E7 (11–19)–HLA-A*02:01 complex

Immune modulation via presentation of HPV16-E7 peptide to cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). Engagement by TCR-mimic antibodies or engineered T-cell therapies enables targeted destruction of HPV16-E7-expressing tumor cells. Checkpoint or immunomodulatory co-targeting in therapeutic contexts.