CD4 T-cell receptor recognizing M72-derived peptides (M72-specific CD4 TCR)

CD4 T-cell receptors (TCRs) recognizing M72-derived peptides are the primary immunological targets of the M72/AS01E tuberculosis vaccine candidate (Van Der Meeren et al., 2018, NEJM). These receptors are expressed on the surface of CD4+ T lymphocytes and specifically bind to peptides derived from the M72 fusion protein—comprising Mycobacterium tuberculosis antigens Mtb32A and Mtb39A—when presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules (Gillard et al., 2016, Expert Rev Vaccines). Upon recognition of these epitopes, the TCR initiates a signaling cascade that leads to the activation and expansion of Th1-polarized T cells. These activated cells produce critical pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ), tumor necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α), and interleukin-2 (IL-2), which are essential for controlling intracellular M. tuberculosis infection (Tait et al., 2019, NEJM). In clinical trials, the induction of these specific T-cell responses has been associated with significant protection against the development of active pulmonary tuberculosis in individuals with latent infection. Consequently, these TCRs serve as a focal point for evaluating vaccine immunogenicity and correlate with the protective efficacy of modern TB vaccine strategies.

Other names

M72-specific T-cell receptorMtb32A-specific TCRMtb39A-specific TCRMycobacterium tuberculosis antigen-specific TCRM72-specific CD4+ T-cell receptor

The M72/AS01E vaccine delivers M72-derived peptides that are processed and presented by MHC class II molecules to these specific CD4 T-cell receptors, inducing Th1-mediated immune responses and memory formation (Van Der Meeren et al., 2018, NEJM).