Adenovirus Hexon-derived peptide–HLA class I complex (Adv-Hexon-HLA-I)

The Adenovirus Hexon-derived peptide–HLA class I complex is a molecular assembly consisting of a processed fragment of the adenovirus hexon protein bound within the groove of a Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) class I molecule. The hexon protein is the most abundant structural component of the adenovirus capsid and contains highly conserved epitopes across different serotypes, making it a primary target for the host's cellular immune response (Leen et al., 2006, Blood). In infected cells, these peptides are presented on the cell surface to CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs). This complex is a critical therapeutic target for managing severe adenovirus infections in immunocompromised individuals, such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) recipients (Feuchtinger et al., 2004, British Journal of Haematology). Therapeutic strategies include the infusion of donor-derived virus-specific T cells (VSTs) or the development of TCR-engineered T cells that specifically recognize this pMHC complex to eliminate infected cells (Gerdemann et al., 2012, Molecular Therapy). The specificity of the interaction depends on both the peptide sequence and the specific HLA allele, necessitating patient-specific matching for effective treatment (Aiello et al., 2017, Journal of Immunotherapy).

Other names

Adenovirus hexon pMHCAdv-Hexon-MHC-I complexAdenovirus hexon antigen-HLA complexAdenovirus hexon epitope-HLA-I complex

Recognition by specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ T cells, triggering the release of perforin and granzymes to induce apoptosis in adenovirus-infected cells.