CD8+ T cell receptor recognizing Chikungunya virus peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (CHIKV-specific TCR)

The CD8+ T cell receptor (TCR) recognizing Chikungunya virus (CHIKV) peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a critical component of the adaptive immune system's defense against alphavirus infections (Priyamvada et al., 2016, J. Virol.). This receptor complex, typically composed of alpha and beta glycoprotein chains, specifically identifies viral epitopes—such as the immunodominant E1-257 peptide—presented by MHC Class I molecules (e.g., HLA-A*02:01) on the surface of infected host cells (Warke et al., 2003, J. Immunol.). Upon binding, the TCR initiates a signaling cascade that leads to the activation of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which then destroy infected cells through the secretion of perforins and granzymes (Nakaya et al., 2012, J. Clin. Invest.). In the context of Chikungunya fever, a disease characterized by debilitating joint pain and fever, these TCRs play a dual role in both viral clearance and potentially contributing to chronic inflammation and arthralgia (McCarthy et al., 2018, J. Gen. Virol.). While not a traditional drug target for small molecules, these TCRs are central to the development of next-generation immunotherapies, including TCR-engineered T cell (TCR-T) therapies and epitope-based vaccines like Ixchiq designed to enhance long-term immunity (FDA, 2023). Understanding the structural basis of this TCR-pMHC interaction is essential for predicting cross-reactivity and ensuring the safety of such therapeutic interventions (Rao et al., 2021, Nat. Commun.).

Other names

Chikungunya virus-specific T cell receptorCHIKV-specific CD8+ TCRTCR recognizing CHIKV pMHCCHIKV-specific T-cell receptor

The TCR specifically binds to viral peptides (e.g., E1-257) presented by MHC Class I molecules on the surface of infected cells, triggering T cell activation, proliferation, and the release of cytotoxic granules (perforin/granzyme) and pro-inflammatory cytokines to eliminate the virus.