Human Papillomavirus Type 16 Virion (HPV16 Virion)

The Human Papillomavirus Type 16 (HPV16) virion is a non-enveloped, icosahedral particle responsible for infecting basal epithelial cells and causing a significant proportion of human cancers, including cervical and oropharyngeal cancers. The virion consists of a capsid made up of major (L1) and minor (L2) capsid proteins, encapsulating a ~7.9–8 kb circular double-stranded DNA genome. The genome encodes early (E) proteins involved in viral replication and cell transformation, and late (L) structural proteins. The early proteins, particularly E6 and E7, are oncogenic, disrupting cell cycle control and promoting malignancy if infection persists. Entry into host cells occurs via micro-abrasions and binding to cell surface receptors. Although the virion itself is not directly targeted by drugs, antiviral compounds may inhibit viral replication. Detection of HPV16 DNA or its oncoproteins serves as a diagnostic and prognostic marker.

Other names

HPV16 particleHPV16 capsid

Antiviral drugs can target viral replication; no specific drugs directly target the HPV16 virion structure for therapeutic benefit.