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Naturally Occurring Capsid Protein Variants of Human Papillomavirus Genotype 31 Represent a Single L1 Serotype

Sara L Bissett1, Anna Godi1, Maxime J J Fleury2

  • 1Virus Reference Department, Public Health England, London, United Kingdom.

Journal of Virology
|May 22, 2015
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Naturally occurring variations in human papillomavirus (HPV) genotype 31 capsid proteins (L1 and L2) have minimal impact on antibody neutralization. These HPV31 variants represent a single L1 serotype, crucial for vaccine development.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Immunology
  • Vaccine Development

Background:

  • The human papillomavirus (HPV) capsid, composed of major (L1) and minor (L2) proteins, is essential for viral entry and infectivity.
  • These capsid proteins are primary targets for neutralizing antibodies, forming the basis for L1 virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines.
  • Naturally occurring genetic variations exist within HPV genotypes, potentially affecting capsid antigenicity and vaccine efficacy.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the impact of naturally occurring variations in HPV genotype 31 (HPV31) L1 and L2 capsid proteins on antigenicity.
  • To determine if HPV31 variant lineages affect susceptibility to antibody-mediated neutralization.
  • To assess if HPV31 variants represent a single serotype for L1 VLP-based vaccine considerations.

Main Methods:

  • Production of L1L2 pseudoviruses (PsVs) representing three HPV31 variant lineages (A, B, and C).
  • Assessment of particle-to-infectivity ratios and morphologies of lineage-specific PsVs.
  • Evaluation of PsV neutralization susceptibility using antibodies from vaccination, L1 VLP immunization, and monoclonal antibodies.

Main Results:

  • HPV31 variant lineages A, B, and C exhibited comparable particle-to-infectivity ratios and morphologies.
  • Lineage-specific PsVs showed only subtle, low-magnitude differences in neutralization susceptibility to various antibodies.
  • Single nucleotide polymorphisms within HPV31 capsid genes had a limited effect on L1 antibody-mediated neutralization.

Conclusions:

  • The three HPV31 variant lineages demonstrate a single L1 serotype.
  • Naturally occurring variations in HPV31 L1 and L2 capsid proteins have a limited impact on antibody neutralization.
  • These findings support the classification of HPV31 variants as a single serotype for L1 VLP vaccine purposes.

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