Human papillomavirus 35 (HPV35) is a high‑risk type of HPV within the alpha‑9 species group. It infects mucosal epithelium and is associated with cervical, vulvar, vaginal and anal cancers, but is less common than HPV16 and HPV18.
Virology and Oncogenic Characteristics
HPV35 has an approximately 8 kb circular double‑stranded DNA genome encoding early regulatory proteins (E1, E2, E4, E5, E6 and E7) and late structural proteins (L1 and L2). The virus enters the basal layer of stratified squamous epithelium through microabrasions and maintains its genome as an episome. Viral gene expression follows epithelial differentiation, with replication occurring in basal and parabasal cells and assembly of virions in the upper layers. Persistent infection can lead to integration of viral DNA into host chromosomes, often disrupting the E2 gene and resulting in elevated expression of the E6 and E7 oncoproteins. HPV35 E6 promotes degradation of p53, and E7 binds and inactivates the retinoblastoma protein, causing unscheduled entry into the cell cycle and inhibiting apoptosis. These disruptions create genomic instability and support malignant transformation. Although less prevalent than HPV16 and HPV18, HPV35 exhibits similar oncogenic mechanisms. The virus can evade innate and adaptive immunity by downregulating interferon pathways and antigen presentation. Risk factors such as smoking, multiple sexual partners and immunosuppression increase the chance of persistence and progression.
Disease Associations and Prevention
HPV35 contributes to a smaller proportion of cervical cancers compared with types 16, 18, 31, 33, 45, 52 and 58, but it is classified as high‑risk. It has been linked to high‑grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, invasive cervical carcinoma and cancers of the anus and vulva, particularly in certain populations. There is currently no licensed vaccine that includes HPV35, so prevention relies on regular cervical screening with Papanicolaou cytology and HPV DNA testing to detect precancerous changes early. High‑grade lesions are managed with excisional or ablative procedures. Behavioural measures such as condom use, limiting the number of sexual partners and smoking cessation reduce transmission and persistence but do not eliminate risk. Ongoing research aims to develop broader‑spectrum vaccines that may cover types such as HPV35. HPV35 is a high‑risk papillomavirus that infects mucosal epithelium and contributes to a small portion of cervical and other anogenital cancers. Its E6 and E7 proteins disrupt key tumour suppressor pathways, and persistent infection is the main risk factor for malignant transformation. Screening, lesion treatment and safe sexual practices remain the primary tools for controlling HPV35 infection. Related Terms: Oncogenic HPV, High‑grade cervical intraepithelial neoplasia, HPV16, HPV45, Screening