Grass pollen allergen-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) (TCR)

Grass pollen allergen-specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) are specialized heterodimeric proteins located on the surface of T lymphocytes that recognize specific peptide fragments from grass pollen (e.g., Phleum pratense) presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules (Wurtzen et al., 2007, International Archives of Allergy and Immunology). These receptors are central to the development of Type I hypersensitivity, as their activation in susceptible individuals triggers the differentiation of Th2 cells and the subsequent production of IgE-inducing cytokines like IL-4 and IL-13 (Durham et al., 2013, Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology). In clinical practice, these TCRs are the primary targets of allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which involves the administration of increasing doses of allergen extracts to induce immune tolerance. AIT promotes the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the production of suppressive cytokines such as IL-10 and TGF-beta, which counteract the allergic inflammatory response (Shamji & Durham, 2017, Nature Reviews Immunology). Monitoring the frequency and activation state of these allergen-specific T cells using MHC-peptide tetramers provides a precise biomarker for therapeutic efficacy and patient selection. Overall, these TCRs represent a critical node in the transition from allergic sensitization to clinical disease and are the focus of precision medicine approaches in allergy. By modulating the signaling through these receptors, clinicians can achieve long-term desensitization in patients with allergic rhinitis and asthma.

Other names

Grass pollen-specific TCRTimothy grass allergen-specific TCRPhl p-specific T-cell receptorAllergen-specific T-cell receptor

Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) modulates these TCRs by inducing T-cell anergy, deletion, or a shift from a Th2-mediated allergic response to a regulatory T-cell (Treg) or Th1-mediated response, resulting in long-term immune tolerance (Akdis & Akdis, 2014, Nature Reviews Drug Discovery).