Tumor antigen recognized by T cells

Cancer cell antigens recognized by autologous T cells encompass a diverse group of cell-surface or intracellular molecules (antigens) expressed by tumor cells and capable of being processed and presented via major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules, thereby enabling specific recognition by a patient's own cytotoxic (CD8+) or helper (CD4+) T cells. These antigens are the foundation for tumor immunosurveillance and form the mechanistic basis for many cancer immunotherapies, such as CAR T-cell therapy and adoptive T cell transfers. The group includes tumor-associated antigens (expressed on some normal cells) and tumor-specific antigens/neoantigens (arising from tumor-specific mutations or viral infections). The lack of specificity in the name means that it describes a generalized immunologic process rather than a unique molecule.

Other names

Cancer cell antigen recognized by autologous T cellsTumor antigenTumor-associated antigen (TAA)Tumor-specific antigen (TSA)Cancer-testis antigen (CTA)

Recognition by T cell receptor (TCR) leading to targeted cytotoxicity and cytokine release; Immune-mediated cell lysis; Enhanced recognition through genetic engineering (e.g., CAR T, TCR-T therapies)