Dataset Genetic variability HPV16 E2 [72]

<b>Abstract</b>Background: The HPV16 E2 gene plays a crucial role in viral replication and oncogene regulation. This study aimed to assess the genetic variability of the E2 gene and to identify immunogenic epitopes of the E2 protein.Methods: The E2 gene was amplified and sequenced. T-cell epitope prediction and evaluation were performed using IEDB, NetMHCpan v4.0, NetMHCIIpan v4.1, VaxiJen, ToxNet, and pLM4Alg.Results: Phylogenetic analysis of 47 E2 sequences demonstrated co-circulation of the Asian–American (n=4) and European (n=43) HPV16 lineages in Cajamarca. Twenty-eight SNPs were identified in E2, 22 of which were nonsynonymous. Seventeen mutations were associated with positive Papanicolaou (Pap) test results. Epitope prediction identified 2 MHC class I and 27 MHC class II epitopes classified as potentially antigenic, non-toxic, and non-allergenic, with an overall global population coverage across both MHC classes of 99.78%.Conclusions: The European HPV16 lineage predominated among the women studied. The identified SNPs indicate substantial variability in the E2 gene and a relationship with endocervical lesions. In total, 29 E2-derived T-cell epitopes with immunogenic potential were identified.<b>Keywords: </b>Human papillomavirus 16; E2 protein, Human papillomavirus; Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte