Advances in the Prevention of Cervical Cancer by Anti-Human Papillomavirus Agents.

BACKGROUND

Cervical cancer remains a major global health threat for women, primarily driven by human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. While HPV vaccination serves as the cornerstone of prevention, disparities in vaccine accessibility persist across low-income countries. Secondary prevention through screening faces challenges in public engagement, often leading to late-stage diagnoses. Recent advancements in novel anti-HPV drugs offer expanded opportunities for cervical cancer management.

AIM

This review examines emerging anti-HPV therapeutics to provide insights into innovative strategies for cervical cancer prevention and treatment.

METHODS

We conducted a systematic analysis of published studies investigating anti-HPV agents, focusing on their molecular mechanisms and clinical efficacy in cervical cancer prevention.

RESULTS & CONCLUSIONS

Multiple promising anti-HPV agents have been identified, including 3-hydroxyphthalic anhydride-modified bovine β-lactoglobulin (3HP-β-LG), carrageenan, defensins, and 25-hydroxycholesterol (25HC). These compounds exert antiviral effects through distinct mechanisms: 3HP-β-LG competitively inhibits viral attachment, carrageenan blocks HPV entry via heparan sulfate mimicry, defensins inhibit the dissociation of viral capsid, and 25HC activates cholesterol-mediated antiviral pathways. They have demonstrated strong inhibitory effects on HPV infection, making them novel therapeutic candidates for the prevention and treatment of cervical cancer.

© 2025 The Author(s). Cancer Medicine published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd.