High-risk human papillomavirus types contribute to cervical carcinoma through the action of viral oncoproteins. Which pairing correctly matches each oncoprotein with its primary cellular target?
- A E7 targets RB, E6 targets p53 ✓
- B E5 targets RB, E6 targets p53
- C E6 targets RB, E7 targets p53
- D E6 targets RB, E7 targets p21
Correct answer: A. E7 targets RB, E6 targets p53
Explanation
The E7 protein of high-risk HPV binds the hypophosphorylated RB protein and displaces E2F, driving S-phase entry, while E6 binds the E6-associated protein (E6AP) ubiquitin ligase complex and promotes proteasomal degradation of p53. This combined loss of the two central checkpoint guardians explains why HPV-infected cells escape both growth arrest and apoptosis. Option C reverses the targets and is the classic trap.
Reference: Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease, 10th ed.
High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP
Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.