Induction of apoptosis in human papillomavirus-positive cancer cells by peptide aptamers targeting the viral E6 oncoprotein

Certain types of human papillomaviruses (HPVs) are closely linked to the development of human cancers. Herein, it is shown that intracellular targeting of the HPV16 E6 oncoprotein by Eb-binding peptide aptamers resulted in the apoptotic elimination of HPV16-positive cancer cells, whereas HPV-negative cells were not affected. These results provide direct experimental evidence that the HPV E6 oncoprotein has antiapoptotic activity in HPV-positive tumor cells that is required for their survival. The EG-targeting molecules identified herein have implications for the development of therapeutic strategies for the treatment of HPV-associated dysplasias and cancers.