Epstein-Barr virus antigen-derived peptide–human leukocyte antigen complex (EBV peptide–HLA complex) (EBV peptide–HLA complex)

Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) antigen-derived peptide–human leukocyte antigen (HLA) complexes are molecular assemblies formed when fragments of EBV proteins are presented on the surface of host cells by HLA molecules. These complexes are the primary targets for the host's cellular immune response, specifically recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. While many immunotherapies focus on well-characterized antigens like LMP1, LMP2, and EBNA1, the "Other" category typically encompasses a diverse set of immunogenic proteins, including the EBNA3 family (3A, 3B, 3C) and lytic cycle proteins such as BZLF1 and BRLF1. These complexes are central to the pathogenesis of EBV-associated diseases, ranging from infectious mononucleosis to various malignancies like post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorder (PTLD) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma. Therapeutic interventions targeting these complexes include adoptive cell therapies, such as allogeneic EBV-specific T cells (e.g., tabelecleucel) and TCR-engineered T cells, which aim to restore or enhance the immune system's ability to clear EBV-infected cells. Additionally, these targets are relevant in autoimmune research, particularly in multiple sclerosis, where molecular mimicry between viral and self-peptides is a hypothesized disease driver.

Other names

Other EBV antigen-derived peptide–HLA complexesEBV pMHCEBV antigen-MHC complexEpstein-Barr virus peptide-HLA complexEBV-specific T-cell target

T-cell receptor (TCR) mediated recognition of viral peptides presented on HLA molecules, leading to T-cell activation and targeted lysis of EBV-infected cells.