Cytomegalovirus-specific T cell receptor (CMV-TCR)

The Cytomegalovirus-specific T cell receptor (CMV-TCR) is a specialized protein complex found on the surface of CD8+ T cells that specifically recognizes viral peptides, such as those from the pp65 or IE1 proteins, presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules (Schub et al., 2009, J. Immunol.). This recognition is a critical component of the adaptive immune response, triggering the activation and expansion of cytotoxic T lymphocytes that target and destroy CMV-infected cells (Peggs et al., 2003, Lancet). In clinical settings, CMV-TCRs are utilized as therapeutic targets or tools in adoptive cell therapy, particularly for immunocompromised patients like hematopoietic stem cell transplant recipients who are at high risk for CMV reactivation (Blyth et al., 2013, Blood). By engineering patient or donor T cells to express high-affinity CMV-TCRs, clinicians can provide a precise, long-lasting immune defense against the virus (Neuenhahn et al., 2017, J. Clin. Invest.). Potential challenges include ensuring the specificity of the TCR to avoid cross-reactivity with self-antigens and managing systemic inflammatory responses like cytokine release syndrome (Linette et al., 2013, Blood).

Other names

CMV-specific TCRCytomegalovirus-specific T-cell receptorCMV-TCRT-cell receptor on CMV-specific CD8+ T cells

Recognition of CMV-derived peptides (e.g., pp65) presented by MHC Class I molecules, leading to T-cell mediated lysis of infected cells.