What is Human Papillomavirus (HPV)?

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a DNA virus; persistent infection with high-risk types (notably 16 and 18) causes cervical and other cancers through the E6 and E7 oncoproteins.

HPV is sexually transmitted. Research tools target the E6/E7 oncoproteins, the L1 capsid (the basis of prophylactic vaccines) and p16INK4a, supported by antibodies, proteins and ELISA kits.

Transmission & symptoms

HPV is a sexually transmitted DNA virus. Most infections clear, but persistent high-risk types (notably HPV-16 and -18) cause cervical and other anogenital and oropharyngeal cancers via the E6 and E7 oncoproteins, which inactivate p53 and retinoblastoma (Rb).

Diagnosis & serology

Screening combines HPV DNA/genotyping with cytology; the biomarker p16INK4a (CDKN2A) is a validated surrogate of transforming HPV infection. L1-based serology supports vaccine immunogenicity studies.

Research applications

Research tools target the E6/E7–p53/Rb axis, the p16INK4a biomarker, epithelial markers (E-cadherin) and L1 capsid antigens underpinning prophylactic HPV vaccines.