Human papillomavirus type 16 L2-E7-E6 fusion protein (HPV16 L2-E7-E6 fusion protein)

The human papillomavirus type 16 L2-E7-E6 fusion protein, also known as TA-CIN, is a recombinant protein vaccine candidate that fuses three HPV16 antigens: L2 (minor capsid protein), E6, and E7 (oncoproteins involved in cell transformation and viral persistence). The L2 region enables the induction of broadly cross-neutralizing antibodies against HPV, while the E6 and E7 regions serve as targets for T-cell-mediated responses, providing both prophylactic and therapeutic potential. This fusion protein is not naturally occurring but is engineered to maximize immunogenicity for both the prevention and treatment of HPV16-associated cancers, especially cervical and other anogenital cancers. Studies in mice, macaques, and humans show induction of both antibody and T cell responses, cross-protection against multiple HPV genotypes, and potential to block infection and eliminate HPV-transformed cells. Safety and tolerability in early-phase clinical trials are promising, but further validation is necessary for clinical use.

Other names

TA-CINHPV16 L2E7E6 fusion proteinHPV16 L2-E6-E7 fusion protein

Induction of virus-neutralizing antibodies (against L2 domain) Induction of cytotoxic T cell responses (against E6 and E7 oncoproteins) Combined prophylactic and therapeutic effect: prevention of new infection and clearance of infected or transformed cells