Human papillomavirus type 16 L1 capsid protein (HPV16 L1)

The Human papillomavirus type 16 L1 capsid protein is the major structural protein of the HPV16 virion. It is responsible for forming pentameric capsomers that self-assemble into an icosahedral viral shell with 72 pentamers, resulting in a particle size of about 50 nm in diameter[7][3][1]. L1 encapsulates the viral double-stranded DNA and, together with the minor capsid protein L2, mediates viral entry by binding to host cell surface molecules such as heparan sulfate[4][6]. L1 contains several conformational and linear neutralizing epitopes, critical for immunogenicity and used as antigens in prophylactic HPV vaccines[6][5]. It plays a key role in infection, persistence, and oncogenic risk of HPV16, the most common oncogenic HPV strain linked to cervical and other anogenital cancers[5][1]. The L1 capsid protein is a well-established therapeutic and preventive vaccine target but is not a classical drug target for small molecules or direct pharmacological inhibition[3][7].

Other names

HPV-16 major capsid protein L1HPV16 L1HPV type 16 L1

Induces neutralizing antibodies that prevent HPV16 infection by blocking viral attachment and entry into host cells Acts as a vaccine antigen, eliciting adaptive immune response