Molecular Classification
Phosphoprotein, Viral structural protein, Tegument protein
Other Names
Phosphoprotein UL83, ppUL83, tegument protein UL83
Disease Roles
CMV infectionImmunocompromised state-related infectionsHematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)-related CMV replication

Cytomegalovirus pp65 Antigen Overview

The Cytomegalovirus (HCMV) pp65 antigen, a 65 kDa phosphoprotein, is a major structural component of the CMV virion. It functions in immune evasion by interfering with interferon production and modulates host cell transcription. Clinically, it is a key diagnostic marker for CMV infection and a target for CMV-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), making it relevant for immunotherapeutic strategies and vaccine development. Specific epitopes are used to stimulate and analyze T cell responses.

Mechanism of Action

N/A - pp65 is a viral protein and target for diagnostics and immunotherapy, not a drug target directly.

Biological Functions

Immune evasion
Inhibition of type I interferon production
Modulation of host cell transcription
Transactivation of viral genes
Viral replication

Disease Associations

CMV infection
Immunocompromised state-related infections
Hematopoietic stem cell transplantation (HSCT)-related CMV replication
CMV end-organ disease

Safety Considerations

  • Potential for immune escape through viral mutation
  • Variability in HLA presentation affecting T cell recognition
  • Challenges in achieving sterilizing immunity against CMV

Associated Biomarkers

Biomarker
pp65 antigenemia levels in peripheral blood
pp65-specific CD8+ T cell responses
CMV viral load