Advance in human papillomavirus major capsid protein L1-based vaccines / 中华微生物学和免疫学杂志

ABSTRACT

L1 is the major capsid protein of human papillomavirus (HPV) encoded by late gene 1. Based on the fact that L1 can self-assemble into virus like particle (VLP) with good immunogenicity, it has aroused wide concern in studying the pathogenesis of and vaccines against HPV. Nevertheless, there are a few limitations of present L1-based HPV vaccines. For instance, low expression of the protein and the complexity of purification result in the relatively low yield of vaccines. Type-specific antibody induced by L1 also results in the unsatisfactory cross-protection rate. Furthermore, there is no reported therapeutic effect against HPV-related diseases because of its undefined role in virus eliminating. This review focused on the structure, immunogenicity and role in immune response of L1 and the development of and latest progress in HPV vaccines.