Cytomegalovirus phosphoprotein 65 (pp65) peptide-Human Leukocyte Antigen A*11:01 complex (CMV pp65/HLA-A*11:01)

The Cytomegalovirus phosphoprotein 65 (pp65) peptide-Human Leukocyte Antigen A*11:01 complex is a specific peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) that serves as a critical target for cellular immunity against Human Cytomegalovirus (HCMV). The pp65 protein, encoded by the UL83 gene, is the most abundant tegument protein of the virus and is highly immunogenic, making it a primary target for CD8+ T-cell responses (UniProt P06725). In individuals carrying the HLA-A*11:01 allele, specific pp65-derived peptides, such as the immunodominant ATVQGQNLK epitope, are processed and presented on the cell surface (IEDB). This complex is recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which then mediate the destruction of infected cells and control viral replication. This target is particularly significant in the context of hematopoietic stem cell and solid organ transplantation, where CMV reactivation is a major cause of morbidity and mortality. Therapeutic strategies targeting this complex include the adoptive transfer of donor-derived or "off-the-shelf" CMV-specific T cells and the development of peptide or viral vector vaccines like Triplex (NCT02506933, PubMed: 21677131).

Other names

CMV pp65-A11 complexHLA-A*11:01-restricted CMV pp65 epitopeUL83 peptide-HLA-A*11:01 complexCytomegalovirus UL83-HLA-A*11:01 complex

Recognition by antigen-specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ T cells, triggering cytotoxic activity and cytokine production against CMV-infected cells.