Human papillomavirus type 58 major capsid protein L1 (HPV58 L1) (HPV58 L1)

The Human papillomavirus type 58 (HPV58) major capsid protein L1 is the primary structural component of the HPV58 virion, a high-risk genotype frequently associated with cervical cancer, particularly in East Asia [1, 11]. This protein has the intrinsic ability to self-assemble into virus-like particles (VLPs) that are morphologically and immunologically similar to the native virus but lack the viral genome [4, 11]. Biologically, the L1 protein mediates the initial attachment of the virus to host cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans, triggering conformational changes that allow for viral entry via endocytosis [1, 9]. During the viral life cycle, it also plays a crucial role in encapsidating the viral DNA and facilitating its release into the host nucleus [1, 4]. In the context of therapeutics, HPV58 L1 is a critical antigen in the 9-valent HPV vaccine (Gardasil 9), which induces the production of neutralizing antibodies that prevent viral infection [2, 16]. These antibodies block the interaction between the L1 protein and host receptors, thereby neutralizing the virus before it can infect keratinocytes [16]. Furthermore, the presence or absence of L1 protein expression in clinical samples serves as a significant biomarker; the loss of L1 expression is often correlated with the progression of cervical lesions to high-grade intraepithelial neoplasia and invasive cancer [12, 13]. Prophylactic vaccination targeting this protein remains the most effective strategy for preventing HPV58-related malignancies [11].

Other names

Major capsid protein L1L1 proteinHPV58 L1 capsid proteinHuman papillomavirus type 58 L1

Induction of neutralizing antibodies that bind to the L1 protein, blocking viral attachment to host cell heparan sulfate proteoglycans and preventing viral entry.