Autologous dendritic cell self-antigen–derived peptide–HLA complexes (DC-peptide-HLA)

Autologous dendritic cell self-antigen–derived peptide–HLA complexes are specialized therapeutic entities used to restore immune tolerance in patients with autoimmune diseases (Lord et al., 2021, Int J Mol Sci). These complexes consist of a patient's own dendritic cells that have been ex vivo modulated to a tolerogenic state and loaded with specific peptides derived from self-antigens, such as proinsulin or myelin basic protein (Nikolic et al., 2020, Curr Opin Endocrinol Diabetes Obes). These peptides are presented on the cell surface via Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) molecules. When re-infused into the patient, these complexes interact with autoreactive T-cell receptors (TCRs). Unlike standard antigen presentation, these tolerogenic complexes lack necessary costimulatory signals, which instead promotes the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and induces anergy or apoptosis in pathogenic effector T cells (Phillips et al., 2019, Front Immunol). This targeted approach aims to halt the progression of diseases like Type 1 Diabetes and Multiple Sclerosis by specifically silencing the immune response against host tissues without causing systemic immunosuppression (Giannoukakis et al., 2011, Diabetes Care).

Other names

Tolerogenic dendritic cellstolDCsPeptide-pulsed dendritic cellsAntigen-specific tolerogenic DCsMHC-peptide complexesAutologous DC vaccine

Induction of peripheral immune tolerance through the presentation of self-antigens to T-cells in a tolerogenic context, leading to regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion and effector T-cell anergy or deletion (Lord et al., 2021, Int J Mol Sci).