Plays a major role in the induction and maintenance of cellular transformation. E6 associates with host UBE3A/E6-AP ubiquitin-protein ligase and modulates its activity. Protects host keratinocytes from apoptosis by mediating the degradation of host BAK1. May also inhibit host immune response. Forms homodimers. Interacts with ubiquitin-protein ligase UBE3A/E6-AP; this interaction stimulates UBE3A ubiquitin activity. Interacts with host BAK1. Belongs to the papillomaviridae E6 protein family. It is uncertain whether Met-1 or Met-8 is the initiator.