Apolipoprotein B-100 peptide P210–MHC complex (P210–MHC complex)

The P210–MHC complex is a molecular assembly consisting of a specific 20-amino acid peptide (P210, derived from residues 3136–3155 of Apolipoprotein B-100) bound to a Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecule, typically HLA-A*02:01. This complex is presented on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs), such as dendritic cells, where it serves as a critical recognition element for the adaptive immune system. In the context of atherosclerosis, the P210 peptide acts as a self-antigen that can trigger both pro-inflammatory and regulatory immune responses. Therapeutic strategies targeting this complex aim to modulate the immune system's reaction to low-density lipoprotein (LDL) components. Experimental vaccines, such as P210-loaded peptide amphiphile micelles (P210-PAM), are designed to promote the expansion of P210-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs) and dampen the activity of pro-inflammatory CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. By inducing immune tolerance or protective immunity against this specific epitope, these therapies seek to reduce arterial inflammation and stabilize or shrink atherosclerotic plaques. This approach represents a novel immunotherapeutic paradigm for treating cardiovascular diseases beyond traditional lipid-lowering statin therapies.

Other names

ApoB-100 P210–MHC complexPeptide 210–HLA complexApolipoprotein B-100 (3136–3155) peptide–MHC complexP210–HLA-A*02:01 complex

Induction of antigen-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs) and modulation of pro-inflammatory T-cell responses to reduce vascular inflammation and atherosclerotic plaque formation.