Epstein-Barr virus latent membrane protein 2-specific T-cell receptor (LMP2-specific TCR)

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) latent membrane protein 2 (LMP2)-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) is a recombinant or naturally derived receptor engineered to target cells expressing the LMP2 viral antigen [1.1.1, 1.3.5]. LMP2 is a key protein expressed during the latent phase of EBV infection and is consistently found in EBV-associated malignancies, including nasopharyngeal carcinoma, Hodgkin lymphoma, and post-transplant lymphoproliferative disorders [1.2.2, 1.3.3]. The TCR specifically recognizes LMP2-derived peptides, such as the HLA-A*02:01-restricted CLGGLLTMV epitope, presented on the surface of tumor cells [1.2.2, 1.3.3]. Upon engagement with the peptide-MHC complex, the TCR triggers T-cell activation, leading to the release of cytotoxic molecules like granzymes and perforins, as well as pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma [1.1.2, 1.4.1]. This mechanism facilitates the selective destruction of EBV-positive malignant cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues [1.3.5]. In the clinical setting, LMP2-specific TCRs are primarily utilized in adoptive cell therapies (TCR-T), where a patient's own T cells are genetically modified to express the receptor [1.3.1, 1.3.5]. These therapies are being investigated as a precision medicine approach for patients with refractory EBV-associated cancers who have failed standard treatments [1.2.3, 1.3.4].

Other names

EBV LMP2-specific TCRLMP2A-specific T-cell receptorLatent membrane protein 2-specific T-cell receptorLMP2-specific TCR-T

Engineered T-cell receptors recognize specific LMP2 peptide fragments (such as CLGGLLTMV or SSCSSCPLSK) presented by Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) molecules on the surface of EBV-infected or malignant cells, triggering T-cell activation, the release of cytotoxic granules (perforin/granzymes), and the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IFN-gamma to induce target cell lysis [1.1.2, 1.2.2, 1.4.1].