Cytomegalovirus 65 kDa lower matrix phosphoprotein peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (CMV pp65-MHC)

The Cytomegalovirus 65 kDa lower matrix phosphoprotein (pp65) peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a primary antigenic target presented on the surface of cells infected with human cytomegalovirus (CMV) and in certain malignancies like glioblastoma. pp65, encoded by the UL83 gene, is an immunodominant tegument protein that triggers a robust CD8+ cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response in the majority of CMV-seropositive individuals. Specific peptides derived from pp65, such as the HLA-A*02:01-restricted NLVPMVATV epitope, are processed and displayed by MHC Class I molecules for recognition by T-cell receptors (TCRs). This complex is a focal point for various immunotherapeutic strategies, including adoptive transfer of virus-specific T-cells (VSTs), TCR-engineered T-cells, and TCR-like antibodies designed to selectively eliminate CMV-infected or pp65-expressing cells. These therapies are particularly relevant for managing CMV-related complications in immunocompromised transplant recipients and are being investigated for their potential to target CMV-associated antigens in solid tumors.

Other names

CMV pp65-HLA complexUL83 peptide-MHC complexpp65-MHC class I complexCMVpp65(495-503)/HLA-A*02:01Cytomegalovirus matrix protein pp65-MHC complex

T-cell receptor (TCR) mediated recognition of the peptide-MHC complex leading to T-cell activation, recruitment of cytotoxic T-lymphocytes, and targeted lysis of infected or tumor cells via the release of granzymes and perforin.