Adenovirus hexon-derived peptide–MHC class I complex (Adv-hexon-MHC-I)

The Adenovirus hexon-derived peptide–MHC class I complex is a molecular assembly presented on the surface of cells infected with Adenovirus. The hexon protein is the major structural component of the adenovirus capsid and serves as a primary source of antigens for the host immune system [1]. During infection, hexon is proteolytically processed into short peptides that are loaded onto MHC class I molecules (HLA in humans) and transported to the cell surface [2]. This complex is specifically recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, triggering the release of perforins and granzymes to destroy the infected cell [3]. In patients with weakened immune systems, such as those receiving bone marrow transplants, the failure to recognize these complexes leads to uncontrolled viral replication and severe morbidity [4]. Therapeutic strategies like posoleucel (ALVR105) utilize virus-specific T cells that target these complexes to provide passive immunity [5]. Furthermore, the development of TCR-mimetic antibodies and chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) T cells targeting these specific peptide-MHC combinations represents a growing field in antiviral immunotherapy [6]. Sources: [1] Leen AM, et al. (2006). Blood. [2] Feuchtinger T, et al. (2004). Blood. [3] UniProtKB - P03277 (Hexon protein). [4] Lion T. (2014). Clinical Microbiology Reviews. [5] AlloVir. (2023). Posoleucel Overview. [6] Akatsuka Y. (2017). TCR-like antibodies.

Other names

Adenovirus hexon peptide-HLA complexpMHC complex (Adenovirus hexon)Adenovirus hexon antigen-MHC complexHLA-restricted Adenovirus hexon antigen

Recognition of the peptide-MHC complex by specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) on cytotoxic T lymphocytes, leading to the targeted lysis of Adenovirus-infected cells.