Epstein–Barr virus nuclear antigen–derived peptide–HLA complex

The Epstein–Barr virus nuclear antigen–derived peptide–HLA complex refers to a molecular entity formed by the binding of short antigenic peptides derived from EBV nuclear antigens (including EBNA1 and EBNA3 family proteins) to specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules (such as HLA-A2, HLA-A11, HLA-B7, or HLA-E). This complex is presented on the surface of infected cells and is recognized by virus-specific CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes as well as by NK cells (in the context of certain HLAs such as HLA-E). The peptide–HLA complex is central for immune recognition of EBV-infected cells and serves as a key target for host immune responses, vaccine design, and potentially T cell-based immunotherapies. Mutations in the peptide sequence or viral mechanisms that interfere with peptide-HLA presentation can lead to immune evasion, which is a major factor in EBV persistence and its associated pathologies, including several human cancers.

Other names

EBV nuclear antigen–derived peptide–HLA complexEBNA-derived peptide–HLA complexEBV peptide–HLA complex

Recognition by virus-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) or natural killer (NK) cells, leading to immune-mediated killing of infected cells. Some EBV peptides presented by HLA can modulate NK cell and T cell immune responses by acting as either activating or inhibitory ligands.