Cytomegalovirus peptide–MHC class I complex

The cytomegalovirus peptide–MHC class I complex consists of a peptide antigen derived from human (or murine) cytomegalovirus bound within the peptide-binding groove of a host major histocompatibility complex class I (MHC I) molecule[2][3][4]. These complexes are presented on the surface of infected cells, enabling recognition by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CD8+ T cells), which are a major part of the adaptive immune response to CMV infection[2][3]. The viral proteins US2, US3, and other HCMV immunoevasins directly interfere with the formation or expression of peptide–MHC complexes, diminishing T cell recognition and facilitating viral persistence[5][6]. The CMV peptide–MHC class I complex is both a therapeutic target for adoptive T cell immunotherapy and a key target for immune evasion strategies used by the virus. Quantification of specific CMV peptide–MHC complexes serves as an immune monitoring biomarker, especially in transplantation and immunocompromised patients.

Other names

CMV peptide–MHC complexCMV–MHC I complexCytomegalovirus antigen–MHC class I complex

Target for T cell receptor–mediated cytotoxicity; Target of viral immune evasion proteins (e.g., US2, US3)