Fel d 1-specific T cell receptor (Fel d 1-specific TCR)

Fel d 1-specific T cell receptors (TCRs) are specialized protein complexes expressed on the surface of T lymphocytes that selectively recognize peptides derived from Fel d 1, the primary secretoglobin allergen found in cat saliva and dander (PMID: 15985813). These receptors play a central role in the pathogenesis of cat allergy by binding to Fel d 1 epitopes presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules on antigen-presenting cells (PMID: 24139496). This interaction triggers the activation and proliferation of Th2-polarized T cells, which secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IL-4 and IL-13, ultimately driving allergen-specific IgE production and eosinophilic inflammation. In the pharmaceutical industry, Fel d 1-specific TCRs are the primary targets for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to reprogram the immune system toward a state of tolerance (PMID: 21835011). Modern therapeutic strategies, such as peptide-based immunotherapies (e.g., Cat-PAD), utilize short synthetic peptides designed to interact with these TCRs to induce T cell anergy or promote the differentiation of regulatory T cells (Tregs) without the risk of IgE-mediated anaphylaxis (PMID: 26960311). Understanding the repertoire and specificity of these TCRs is essential for developing precision vaccines and monitoring the efficacy of desensitization treatments in patients suffering from cat-induced allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Other names

Cat allergen-specific T cell receptorFelis domesticus allergen 1-specific TCRFel d 1-reactive T cell receptorMajor cat allergen-specific TCR

Induction of immune tolerance through the promotion of T cell anergy, deletion of reactive clones, or the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) that suppress Th2-mediated allergic inflammation.