Human papillomavirus type 33 L1 major capsid protein (HPV33 L1)

The Human papillomavirus type 33 (HPV33) L1 major capsid protein is the primary structural protein of the HPV33 virion, a high-risk genotype associated with cervical and other anogenital malignancies [UniProt: P06416]. This protein has the intrinsic ability to self-assemble into pentameric capsomeres, which then form icosahedral virus-like particles (VLPs) that encapsulate the viral genome [PubMed: 25331209]. The L1 protein mediates the initial attachment of the virus to host cell surface receptors, such as heparan sulfate proteoglycans, facilitating viral entry into the basal epithelial cells [NCBI: PMC7062357]. Because of its high immunogenicity, recombinant HPV33 L1 VLPs are utilized as the antigenic component in the 9-valent HPV vaccine, Gardasil 9 [FDA: Gardasil 9]. Vaccination induces a robust humoral immune response, generating neutralizing antibodies that bind to the L1 protein and prevent the virus from establishing an infection, thereby providing long-term protection against HPV33-related cancers [National Cancer Institute].

Other names

Major capsid protein L1HPV-33 L1 proteinL1 protein of HPV33HPV33 L1 major capsid protein

Induction of neutralizing antibodies against the L1 protein to prevent viral attachment and entry into host cells (prophylactic immunization).