HepG2-derived tumor-associated antigen peptides (HepG2-TAAs)

HepG2-derived tumor-associated antigen (TAA) peptides represent a heterogeneous collection of protein fragments sourced from the HepG2 hepatocellular carcinoma cell line. These peptides are utilized in the development of dendritic cell (DC) vaccines, where they are loaded onto MHC class I and II molecules to stimulate a robust anti-tumor immune response (PMID: 15150594). While specific antigens like alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) and glypican-3 (GPC3) are often highlighted, the "other" peptides in this group represent the broader proteome of the HepG2 cell, providing a polyvalent target that reduces the likelihood of tumor escape through antigen loss (PMID: 25403715). These antigens are processed by dendritic cells and presented to T cells, leading to the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that can specifically recognize and kill HCC cells (PMID: 30631375). This therapeutic strategy is primarily investigated for the treatment of advanced hepatocellular carcinoma, aiming to enhance the immunogenicity of the tumor microenvironment. Safety concerns are generally minimal but include potential off-target autoimmunity if the peptides are also expressed in healthy tissues.

Other names

Other HepG2-derived tumor-associated antigen peptides presented on MHC molecules of dendritic cellsHepG2 lysate antigensHepG2-pulsed dendritic cell antigensHepatocellular carcinoma-associated antigens (HepG2-derived)

Induction of antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses through MHC-mediated presentation to T-cell receptors.