Human papillomavirus type 16 L1-L2 chimeric virus-like particle (RG1 epitope) (HPV16 L1-L2 RG1-VLP)

The HPV16 L2 RG1 epitope displayed on the L1 DE loop is a chimeric antigen designed to provide broad-spectrum protection against various Human Papillomavirus (HPV) types. While current commercial vaccines primarily target the L1 major capsid protein, which induces type-specific immunity, the L2 minor capsid protein contains highly conserved regions, such as the RG1 epitope (residues 17–36), that can induce cross-neutralizing antibodies against a wide range of oncogenic and skin-infecting HPV types. By genetically engineering this L2 epitope into the surface-exposed DE loop of the HPV16 L1 protein, researchers create a virus-like particle (VLP) that maintains the high immunogenicity of the L1 structure while presenting the conserved L2 target to the immune system. This approach aims to overcome the limitations of current multivalent vaccines by providing a single-antigen solution for broad protection against HPV-related malignancies, including cervical, anal, and oropharyngeal cancers. Experimental vaccines utilizing this target have demonstrated the ability to protect against dozens of HPV genotypes in preclinical models, representing a significant advancement in next-generation prophylactic vaccine development.

Other names

HPV16 L1-L2 chimeric VLPRG1-VLPHPV16 L1 DE-loop L2 (17-36) chimeraL1-RG1 VLPHuman papillomavirus type 16 major capsid protein L1 with minor capsid protein L2 RG1 epitope

Induction of cross-neutralizing antibodies against the highly conserved RG1 epitope (amino acids 17-36) of the L2 minor capsid protein to prevent viral entry and infection across multiple HPV types.