Major capsid protein L1 of human papillomavirus type 33 (HPV33 L1)

The major capsid protein L1 of human papillomavirus type 33 is the principal structural component forming the icosahedral capsid of the virus. It self-assembles into pentamers, which interlink via disulfide bonds to form a 50 nm diameter viral shell. L1 determines antigenic specificity and mediates initial virus-host interaction, particularly by binding surface glycosaminoglycans on epithelial cells. It is the primary target for neutralizing antibodies, forming the basis for current prophylactic HPV vaccines through highly immunogenic virus-like particles (VLPs). Mutational variation in L1 loops influences tropism, immune recognition, and cross-protection between HPV types. HPV type 33 L1 is relevant to infection risk and high-risk HPV-related cancers, particularly cervical cancer.

Other names

HPV33 L1 proteinL1 capsid proteinHPV type 33 major capsid protein

Vaccines containing L1 virus-like particles systematically induce neutralizing antibodies specific for the L1 protein, which block viral infection by preventing attachment and entry into host cells Neutralizing monoclonal antibodies bind L1 and prevent infection