Persistence of Human Papillomavirus Type 16 Infection Is Associated with Lack of Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Response to the E6 Antigens.

Determines the role of cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) in persistence of human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Detection of CTL responses in women with HPV 16 infections; Role of CTL in clearing HPV 16 infection in women without intraepithelial lesion (SILs); Implications of E6 antigen response.