mRNA vaccines targeting HPV E6/E7: A new frontier in cervical cancer immunotherapy.

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infections, particularly high-risk types 16 and 18, are responsible for approximately 70% of cervical cancer cases worldwide. Despite the availability of effective prophylactic vaccines, therapeutic interventions for established HPV-associated malignancies remain limited. This mini-review synthesizes recent advances (2020-2026) in mRNA-LNP vaccine development targeting the HPV E6 and E7 oncoproteins. We examine the mechanistic basis for targeting E6/E7, technological advantages of mRNA-LNP platforms, and key preclinical evidence demonstrating potent T cell-mediated anti-tumor immunity. Recent clinical progress, including BioNTech's BNT113 vaccine which received FDA Fast Track designation for HPV16-positive head and neck cancer, is discussed alongside ongoing challenges in delivery optimization, tumor microenvironment immunosuppression, and manufacturing scalability. The review concludes with future perspectives on combination strategies with immune checkpoint inhibitors and the potential for personalized neoantigen approaches.