Human papillomavirus type 18 L1 capsid protein-host cell receptor interface (HPV-18 L1-receptor interface)

The Human papillomavirus type 18 (HPV-18) L1 capsid protein-host cell receptor interface is the primary site of interaction between the virus and the host cell, facilitating viral entry and subsequent infection. HPV-18 is a high-risk genotype significantly associated with the development of cervical, anogenital, and oropharyngeal cancers. The L1 protein, the major component of the viral capsid, initially binds to heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) on the basement membrane or cell surface, which induces conformational changes in the capsid. These changes allow the virus to engage secondary receptors or entry factors, such as alpha-6 integrin or tetraspanin CD151, leading to endocytosis. Prophylactic vaccines like Gardasil and Cervarix target this interface by inducing neutralizing antibodies that bind to the L1 protein, effectively blocking its ability to interact with host receptors. Because this interface is essential for the viral life cycle, it remains a focal point for the development of both immunotherapies and topical entry inhibitors like carrageenan.

Other names

HPV18 L1-HSPG interfaceHPV-18 L1-alpha-6 integrin interfaceHPV-18 L1-CD151 interfaceHPV-18 major capsid protein-receptor complex

Neutralization of viral particles by preventing attachment to host cell receptors; competitive inhibition of heparan sulfate proteoglycan binding.