Cell-Mediated Immunity Against Human Papillomavirus Infection: From Viral Clearance to Oncogenesis

Human papillomavirus (HPV), especially high-risk HPV types, is a significant public health concern due to its association with various cancers and increased risk of acquiring other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). In most cases, host immunity rapidly responds to and clears HPV infections, but persistent or latent infections can increase susceptibility to cancer. A better understanding of how HPV interacts with and evades the immune response is vital to understanding disease progression and guiding the next generation of vaccines and immunotherapies. This review article provides a comprehensive overview of the immune mechanisms involved in HPV infection, highlighting the roles of T cells and other immune subsets. We discuss the immune evasion strategies employed by HPV and subsequent modulation of the immune microenvironment. Additionally, we explore the current therapeutic landscape and emerging immunotherapeutic approaches under investigation. By unveiling the intricacies of the immune response to HPV, we may inform improved strategies for the treatment of HPV-related diseases.