RTL-003

RTL-003 is a recombinant T cell ligand (RTL), a single-chain construct derived from human HLA-DR3 (DRA*0101/DRB1*0301) with a covalently tethered peptide, designed for immunotherapy targeting autoimmune diseases. It induces antigen-specific tolerance by binding to autoreactive CD4+ T cells, preventing their migration and reducing inflammatory responses such as Th1/Th17-mediated cytokine production (IL-2, IFN-γ, IL-6, IL-17). Developed for proof-of-concept in humanized HLA-DR3 transgenic mouse models, it shows potential for treating autoimmune uveitis by suppressing experimental autoimmune uveitis (EAU) induced by arrestin peptides or whole arrestin protein.[1]