CRM197-specific CD4+ T-cell receptor (CRM197-specific TCR)

CRM197-specific CD4+ T-cell receptors (TCRs) are specialized antigen receptors found on the surface of T helper cells that recognize peptides derived from Cross-Reactive Material 197 (CRM197), a non-toxic mutant of diphtheria toxin [1]. CRM197 is widely utilized as a carrier protein in conjugate vaccines, such as those targeting Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis, to convert T-independent polysaccharide antigens into T-dependent ones [2]. The TCR recognizes the CRM197 peptide when it is presented within the groove of Major Histocompatibility Complex Class II (MHC II) molecules on antigen-presenting cells [3]. This molecular recognition event triggers T-cell activation, leading to the secretion of cytokines and the provision of essential signals to B cells for antibody isotype switching and memory formation [4]. While not a target for inhibitory drugs, these receptors are the primary functional targets of CRM197-containing vaccines, which aim to recruit T-cell help to enhance the immunogenicity of conjugated antigens [5]. Understanding the specific TCR repertoires and MHC II binding motifs of CRM197 is vital for optimizing vaccine efficacy across diverse human populations with varying HLA alleles [6].

Other names

CRM197-reactive T-cell receptorCRM197-specific TCRDiphtheria toxoid-specific CD4+ TCRAnti-CRM197 TCR

Activation of CD4+ T helper cells through the recognition of CRM197-derived peptides presented by MHC Class II molecules, which facilitates B-cell maturation and high-affinity antibody production against conjugated antigens.