CD4+ T-cell receptor recognizing shrimp tropomyosin-derived peptides presented by HLA class II (TCR (shrimp tropomyosin-specific))

CD4+ T-cell receptors (TCRs) recognizing shrimp tropomyosin-derived peptides are specialized immune receptors that play a pivotal role in the pathogenesis of shellfish allergy. These TCRs specifically bind to epitopes of Pen m 1, the major allergen in shrimp, when presented by HLA class II molecules such as HLA-DRB1 on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (Wickramasinghe et al., 2019). This recognition event initiates a Th2-biased immune cascade, characterized by the secretion of cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which promote IgE class switching in B cells and the recruitment of eosinophils (Zheng et al., 2022). The resulting hypersensitivity can lead to severe clinical manifestations, including gastrointestinal distress, urticaria, and systemic anaphylaxis (Pascal et al., 2015). As a therapeutic target, these TCRs are the focus of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) and peptide-based vaccines designed to induce immune tolerance or anergy in reactive T cells (Ravkov et al., 2013). By modulating the activity of these specific T-cell populations, clinicians aim to reduce the risk of life-threatening reactions and improve the quality of life for allergic patients. Understanding the specific TCR-peptide-HLA interactions is crucial for developing precision medicine approaches to treat shellfish allergy.

Other names

Pen m 1-specific T-cell receptorShrimp tropomyosin-reactive TCRTropomyosin-specific CD4+ TCRShellfish allergen-specific T-cell receptor

Modulation of the T-cell response through the induction of immune tolerance, T-cell anergy, or the expansion of regulatory T-cells (Tregs) specific to tropomyosin epitopes.