Human Papillomavirus type 52 L1 protein (HPV-52 L1) (HPV-52 L1)

The Human Papillomavirus type 52 L1 protein is the major structural component of the HPV-52 viral capsid, forming an icosahedral shell composed of 72 pentamers. It is essentially responsible for the initial stages of infection by binding to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on the surface of host keratinocytes, which triggers a conformational change allowing viral entry via endocytosis. HPV-52 is clinically classified as a high-risk genotype due to its strong association with cervical cancer, vaginal cancer, and high-grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, particularly showing a high prevalence in Asian populations. This protein is a critical therapeutic target in the context of prophylaxis, serving as the primary antigen in the 9-valent HPV vaccine. Recombinant L1 proteins are engineered to self-assemble into non-infectious virus-like particles (VLPs) that are immunologically indistinguishable from the native virus. Vaccination induces the production of type-specific neutralizing antibodies that block viral attachment and entry into host cells, effectively preventing persistent infection and the subsequent progression to malignancy. Clinical trials have demonstrated that targeting this protein is highly effective in reducing the incidence of HPV-52-related precancerous lesions and cancers.

Other names

HPV52 L1Major capsid protein L1HPV-52 L1 VLPLate protein L1HPV-52 major capsid protein

Induction of type-specific neutralizing antibodies against L1 virus-like particles to prevent viral attachment and host cell entry.