Human papillomavirus type 16 L1 and type 18 L1 major capsid proteins (HPV16 L1 and HPV18 L1)

Human papillomavirus (HPV) type 16 and 18 L1 proteins are the major structural components of the viral capsid for the two most oncogenic HPV types. These proteins have the unique ability to self-assemble into virus-like particles (VLPs) that are morphologically identical to the native virion but lack the viral genome, rendering them non-infectious. In the context of pharmacology, these VLPs serve as the primary antigens in prophylactic vaccines designed to prevent cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. By inducing high titers of type-specific neutralizing antibodies, the vaccines block the virus from binding to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the basement membrane of the epithelium, thereby preventing infection. HPV16 and HPV18 are collectively responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases and a significant portion of other HPV-related malignancies worldwide. Consequently, the L1 proteins of these types are critical targets for public health initiatives aimed at eliminating HPV-associated diseases.

Other names

HPV16 L1 proteinHPV18 L1 proteinMajor capsid protein L1L1 capsid proteinHPV16/18 L1

Induction of neutralizing antibodies (humoral immune response) that bind to the L1 protein and prevent viral entry into host basal epithelial cells.