E6 and E7 Oncoproteins: Potential Targets of Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer (CC) is the fourth leading cancer in women in the age group
of 15-44 years globally. Experimental as well as epidemiological studies identified that
type16 and 18 HPV cause 70% of precancerous cervical lesions as well as cervical cancer
worldwide by bringing about genetic as well as epigenetic changes in the host
genome. The insertion of the HPV genome triggers various defense mechanisms including
the silencing of tumor suppressor genes as well as activation of oncogenes associated
with cancer metastatic pathway. E6 and E7 are small oncoproteins consisting of 150 and
100 amino acids, respectively. These oncoproteins affect the regulation of the host cell
cycle by interfering with p53 and pRb. Further, these oncoproteins adversely affect the
normal functions of the host cell by binding to their signaling proteins. Recent studies demonstrated
that E6 and E7 oncoproteins are potential targets for CC. Therefore, this review
discusses the role of E6 and E7 oncoproteins in metastasis and drug resistance as
well as their regulation, early oncogene mediated signaling pathways. This review also
uncovers recent updates on molecular mechanisms of E6 and E7 mediated phytotherapy,
gene therapy, immune therapy, and vaccine strategies as well as diagnosis through precision
testing. Therefore, understanding the potential role of E6/E7 in metastasis and drug
resistance along with targeted treatment, vaccine, and precision diagnostic strategies,
could be useful for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.
