Human papillomavirus virus-like particle (HPV VLP)

Human papillomavirus virus-like particle (HPV VLP) refers to a non-infectious, self-assembled particle composed primarily of the recombinant L1 protein (and sometimes the L2 protein) of human papillomavirus (HPV)[1][2][3][4]. These particles mimic the structure of authentic HPV virions but lack viral DNA, rendering them non-replicative and non-infectious[1][2][4]. HPV VLPs are not native viral or host targets but rather synthetic antigenic particles engineered for use as vaccine immunogens[1][4]. Their immunogenicity results from the highly repetitive, icosahedral display of HPV L1 epitopes, inducing a robust neutralizing antibody response against the virus[1][2][4]. The use of HPV VLPs is central to the efficacy of current prophylactic vaccines against HPV infection and the prevention of HPV-associated cancers such as cervical cancer[4]. Note: - *HPV VLP* itself is a *vaccine immunogen*, not a biological target such as a receptor, enzyme, or transporter. It does not represent a naturally occurring therapeutic target but rather a biotechnological construct used in vaccine formulations[4]. - Because of this, it is **not considered a therapeutic target**, and the entry is flagged as **incorrect** for target-based data structuring. If a true target is intended, likely candidates could be the *HPV L1 protein*, the *HPV capsid*, or specific host receptors involved in HPV viral entry.

Other names

Human papillomavirus VLPHPV L1 VLPHPV L1/L2 VLPHPV chVLP (chimeric VLP)

Induction of virus-neutralizing antibodies, Stimulation of immune response against HPV capsid proteins