Epstein-Barr virus-specific T-cell receptor (EBV-TCR)

The Epstein-Barr virus (EBV)-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) is a specialized protein complex on the surface of T lymphocytes that recognizes EBV-derived peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. These peptides are typically derived from EBV latent proteins such as LMP1, LMP2, and EBNA, which are expressed in EBV-infected cells and associated malignancies [1, 2]. In healthy individuals, these TCRs mediate the immune surveillance that keeps EBV infection in check. However, in immunocompromised patients or those with EBV-driven cancers like post-transplant lymphoproliferative disease (PTLD) or nasopharyngeal carcinoma, the endogenous T-cell response may be insufficient [2, 7]. Therapeutic strategies targeting this receptor involve the use of allogeneic EBV-specific T cells (e.g., tabelecleucel) or the engineering of autologous T cells to express high-affinity EBV-specific TCRs (TCR-T therapy) [1, 3]. These treatments aim to restore or enhance the immune system's ability to selectively eliminate EBV-positive cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues. Clinical applications are expanding from post-transplant complications to solid tumors and autoimmune diseases like multiple sclerosis, where EBV is a suspected driver [3, 4, 6]. Key challenges include ensuring HLA compatibility and managing potential toxicities such as cytokine release syndrome and neurotoxicity [2, 5].

Other names

EBV-specific TCRLMP2-specific T-cell receptorLMP1-specific T-cell receptorEBNA-specific T-cell receptorEBV peptide-MHC-specific TCR

Recognition of specific EBV peptides (e.g., from LMP1, LMP2, or EBNA proteins) presented on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, which triggers T-cell activation, cytokine release, and cytotoxic lysis of EBV-infected or malignant cells.