Adenovirus peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) (Adenovirus pMHC)

Adenovirus peptide–MHC (pMHC) complexes are molecular assemblies presented on the surface of cells infected with human adenovirus. These complexes consist of short viral peptide fragments, typically derived from highly conserved structural proteins like the Hexon protein, bound within the groove of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I or II molecules. Their primary biological function is to serve as the ligand for T-cell receptors (TCRs), enabling the adaptive immune system to identify and destroy infected cells. In immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell transplantation, the failure of the immune system to recognize these complexes can lead to life-threatening disseminated infection. Therapeutically, these pMHC complexes are the primary targets for adoptive cellular therapies, including virus-specific T cells (VSTs) and TCR-engineered T cells. Drugs like posoleucel utilize donor-derived T cells that specifically recognize these adenovirus pMHCs to restore viral immunity. Additionally, the adenovirus E3-19K protein is known to interfere with the formation of these complexes by sequestering MHC molecules in the endoplasmic reticulum, representing a significant challenge for immune-based clearance. Understanding the specific peptide sequences and HLA restriction of these complexes is critical for the development of precision immunotherapies and vaccines.

Other names

Adenovirus peptide-HLA complexAdenovirus antigen-MHC complexAdenovirus-specific pMHCAdV pMHC

Recognition of the peptide-MHC complex by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, leading to the targeted lysis of infected cells and secretion of antiviral cytokines.