Adenovirus antigen-derived peptide-HLA complex (AdV-pHLA)

Adenovirus structural and early antigen-derived peptides presented by HLA class I and II molecules are the primary targets for T-cell-mediated immunity against Adenovirus (AdV) (Leen et al., 2008). These complexes are formed when viral proteins, most notably the immunodominant Hexon protein and early proteins like E1A, are processed by the host cell's proteasome and presented on the cell surface via Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) molecules (Stevanovic et al., 2013). CD8+ T cells recognize these peptides on HLA Class I molecules, leading to the direct lysis of infected cells, while CD4+ T cells recognize them on HLA Class II molecules to provide essential help for the immune response (Feuchtinger et al., 2004). This target is particularly critical in immunocompromised patients, such as those following hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT), where AdV can cause life-threatening systemic infections (Allovir, 2023). Therapeutic interventions targeting these complexes include the adoptive transfer of virus-specific T cells (VSTs), such as Posoleucel, which are engineered or selected to recognize these specific viral signatures and restore protective immunity (Papadopoulou et al., 2014). The specificity of this interaction allows for the clearance of the virus while minimizing damage to healthy, non-infected tissues. However, challenges such as HLA restriction and viral immune evasion through the downregulation of MHC molecules remain significant hurdles in the development of universal therapies.

Other names

Adenovirus structural and early antigen-derived peptides presented by HLA class I and II on adenovirus-infected cellsAdV-specific T-cell targetsAdenovirus peptide-MHC complexesAdV-HLA complexesAdenovirus epitopes

Recognition of the peptide-HLA complex by specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) induces cytotoxic activity and cytokine production, leading to the targeted destruction of adenovirus-infected cells.