Drug–Peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex Complex (drug-pMHC complex)

The drug–peptide–major histocompatibility complex complex represents a molecular assembly in which a drug molecule interacts with a peptide that is bound within the groove of a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. This ternary complex is central to many immunological processes and underlies several therapeutic strategies, especially in immuno-oncology and autoimmune disease modulation. It functions primarily in antigen presentation, displaying peptides at the cell surface for recognition by T cells. Drugs targeting these complexes can modulate peptide loading, stabilize specific conformations, block TCR recognition, or alter downstream signaling. These complexes are critical in self/non-self discrimination, transplant compatibility, autoimmunity risk, infection response, and cancer immunity. Their high degree of genetic variability underpins individual differences in immunity and therapeutic response.

Other names

pMHC complexDrug-MHC complexPeptide-MHC complex with drug interaction

Modulating peptide loading/unloading, stabilizing/destabilizing specific pMHC conformations, blocking recognition by TCRs, or altering downstream signaling.