Human papillomavirus type 68 L1 protein (HPV68 L1) (HPV68 L1)

The Human papillomavirus type 68 L1 protein is the major structural component of the viral capsid for HPV type 68, a high-risk alpha-papillomavirus associated with cervical and other anogenital cancers (IARC, 2012). This protein self-assembles into pentameric capsomeres, which further organize into icosahedral virus-like particles (VLPs) that encapsulate the viral genome (UniProt: P54665). Biologically, the L1 protein is critical for the initial attachment of the virus to the host cell's basement membrane and subsequent entry into epithelial cells (PubMed: 25173121). As a primary antigen, it is the central target for prophylactic vaccine development, where recombinant L1 VLPs are used to elicit potent neutralizing antibodies (PubMed: 30635957). While not included in current commercial vaccines like Gardasil 9, HPV68 L1 is a key focus for next-generation multivalent vaccines aimed at expanding coverage against high-risk HPV types (PubMed: 31554301). Targeting this protein effectively prevents the establishment of persistent infections that can lead to malignant transformation.

Other names

Major capsid protein L1HPV-68 L1HPV68 major capsid proteinL1 protein

Neutralization of viral particles and prevention of host cell entry via induction of L1-specific neutralizing antibodies (PubMed: 30635957).