L1
Function
Forms an icosahedral capsid with a T=7 symmetry and a 50 nm diameter. The capsid is composed of 72 pentamers linked to each other by disulfide bonds and associated with L2 proteins. Binds to heparan sulfate proteoglycans on cell surface of basal layer keratinocytes to provide initial virion attachment. This binding mediates a conformational change in the virus capsid that facilitates efficient infection. The virion enters the host cell via endocytosis. During virus trafficking, L1 protein dissociates from the viral DNA and the genomic DNA is released to the host nucleus. The virion assembly takes place within the cell nucleus. Encapsulates the genomic DNA together with protein L2.
Sequence Similarities
Belongs to the papillomaviridae L1 protein family.
Cellular localization
- Virion
- Host nucleus
Alternative names
Major capsid protein L1