Which HPV protein inactivates the tumor suppression gene RB?

The protein responsible for inactivating the tumor suppressor gene RB (Retinoblastoma protein) is E7. The RB protein plays a critical role in regulating the cell cycle by inhibiting progression from the G1 phase to the S phase, thereby preventing uncontrolled cell division. When E7 binds to RB, it causes the displacement of transcription factors that RB normally sequesters, leading to the progression of the cell cycle and promoting cellular proliferation.

This action is particularly significant in the context of HPV, as certain high-risk types of the virus, such as HPV-16 and HPV-18, are associated with the development of cervical cancer and other malignancies. By inactivating RB, E7 removes a critical checkpoint, facilitating the oncogenic transformation of infected cells.

Other proteins associated with HPV, such as E6, E5, and E8, have different functions or do not target the RB pathway specifically. E6 is primarily known for its interaction with the p53 tumor suppressor protein, promoting its degradation, while E5 is involved in enhancing the activity of growth factor receptors. E8 does not have a well-characterized function and is less commonly mentioned in the context of HPV-related oncogenesis. Therefore, E7's direct