Modulation of host immune response by human papillomaviruses and role of E6/E7 oncoproteins in development of cervical precursor lesions and cervical cancer.

Vjosa Zejnullahu, Valon Zejnul

Abstract

Human papillomavirus infection is one of the most common sexually transmitted disease globally and etiological cause of cervical precursor lesions, cervical cancer as well as non-genital cancer. Failure of immunocompetent host to timely detect and eradicate HPV-infected cells and malignant altered cells, poses a higher risk for development of HPV-related cervical disease. This review focuses on host innate and adaptive effectors of the immune system and mechanisms used by HPVs to efficiently evade immune response and therefore establish persistent infection with subsequent disease progression.