Determination of human papillomavirus type 16 genotype and construction of cloning vector pTZ57R encoding HPV16 E7 gene.

Objective: To isolate and construct a cloning vector containing the human papillomavirus (HPV)16-E7 gene as a target for application as a DNA vaccine.

Methods: The study was performed in 2005 in Iran. The E7 gene, one of the most important HPV oncoproteins and a target molecule for therapeutic vaccines, was amplified by polymerase chain reaction (PCR). The PCR product was cloned into a suitable cloning vector and confirmed by colony-PCR, restriction enzyme analysis, and sequenced.

Results: The desired plasmid was sequenced and indicated 99% homology with those mentioned in the Genbank.

Conclusion: The Iranian HPV16 E7 gene sequence is very similar to other sequences in the Genbank, and it can be used as a candidate gene in a therapeutic vaccine for Iranian patients with cervical cancer.