CD4+ T-cell receptor specific for Dermatophagoides peptide-HLA class II complexes (HDM-specific TCR)

CD4+ T-cell receptors specific for Dermatophagoides peptide–HLA class II complexes are specialized immune receptors found on the surface of helper T cells that recognize allergens from house dust mites (HDM). These TCRs bind to specific peptide fragments, such as those derived from the major allergens Der p 1, Der p 2, or Der p 23, when they are presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells [PMID: 22855258, PMID: 27130864]. In allergic individuals, the activation of these TCRs triggers a Type 2 (Th2) immune response, leading to the production of allergen-specific IgE and the recruitment of eosinophils, which are central to the pathogenesis of asthma and allergic rhinitis [PMID: 24565708]. Therapeutic strategies targeting these receptors primarily involve allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to reprogram the immune system toward tolerance by inducing regulatory T cells (Tregs) or shifting the cytokine profile away from Th2 dominance [PMID: 30102132]. Monitoring the frequency and functional state of these specific T-cell populations using MHC tetramers serves as a critical biomarker for evaluating the efficacy of desensitization treatments and understanding the mechanisms of allergic disease [PMID: 28541313].

Other names

House dust mite-specific T-cell receptorDer p-specific TCRDer f-specific TCRHDM-reactive T-cell receptorDermatophagoides-specific CD4+ TCR

Induction of immune tolerance through T-cell desensitization, anergy, or immune deviation from a Th2-biased response to a Th1 or regulatory T-cell (Treg) response [PMID: 21464211].