Article abstract Infection by human papillomavirus (HPV) is the primary factor in the development of cervical cancer, and there is a distinct need for an inexpensive and effective vaccine for HPV infection worldwide. Research into the etiology of cervical cancer and HPV biology has been central in defining the relevant vaccine antigens. As a result of the development of virus-like particle (VLP) vaccines, cervical cancer has the potential to become second to HBV in incidence for reduction by mass vaccination.VLP vaccines against the major capsid protein L1 have been shown to generate significant protection against specific HPV types in clinical trials, although their use is associated with several limitations: type-restriction, cost, and lack of therapeutic effect in eliminating preexisting infection. As an alternative approach, the minor capsid protein L2 has arisen as a possible target for vaccine development.This article reviews current strategies for the development of vaccines against HPV infection and describes in detail advantages and disadvantages of prophylactic L1-based and L2-based HPV vaccines.