Adenovirus penton-derived peptide–MHC complex (AdV penton-pMHC)

Adenovirus penton-derived peptide–MHC complexes are molecular assemblies consisting of short peptide fragments from the adenovirus penton base protein bound to host Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. These complexes are displayed on the surface of infected cells, where they are recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, triggering an immune response to clear the viral infection (1.2.1, 1.3.1). The penton protein is a critical structural component of the adenovirus capsid and has been identified as a major immunodominant antigen, making its peptide-MHC complexes key targets for immunotherapy (1.2.2, 1.3.5). In clinical practice, these complexes are targeted using adoptive T-cell therapies, particularly in immunocompromised patients such as hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients who are at high risk for severe adenovirus reactivation (1.3.1). Research into these complexes also informs the development of engineered TCR-T cell therapies and vaccines aimed at enhancing viral immunity (1.2.1).

Other names

Adenovirus penton base-derived peptide-MHC complexHAdV penton-pMHCAdenovirus penton antigen-presenting complexAdenovirus penton-derived peptide-HLA complex

Recognition by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ T cells, leading to the activation of cytotoxic immune responses and the lysis of adenovirus-infected cells.