HIV-1 antigens (Gag, Pol, Vpr, Nef, and Env) (HIV-1 antigens)

HIV-infected cells displaying HIV-derived antigens are the primary target for HIV-specific T-cell (HXTC) therapies, such as ALVR107. These cells present specific viral peptides derived from proteins including Gag, Pol, Vpr, Nef, and Env on their surface via Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) Class I molecules (NIH, 2023). The HXTC therapy utilizes ex vivo expanded cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) that are selected to recognize these multiple antigens simultaneously, aiming to eliminate both actively replicating and latently infected cells (Allovir, 2021). This multi-antigen approach is designed to prevent viral escape, a common issue where the virus mutates to avoid detection by the immune system (PubMed, PMID: 28356245). When the T-cell receptor (TCR) on the HXTC binds to the antigen-MHC complex, it triggers the release of cytotoxic molecules like perforin and granzymes, leading to the targeted destruction of the HIV-infected cell (Nature Reviews Immunology, 2017). This therapeutic modality is currently being investigated as a potential component of a functional cure for HIV, particularly in the context of hematopoietic stem cell transplantation or as an adjunct to antiretroviral therapy (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT04712916).

Other names

HIV-infected cellsHIV-derived antigensHXTC targetsALVR107 targetsHIV-infected cells displaying HIV-derived antigens recognized by HXTC T cells

T-cell mediated lysis of infected cells via TCR-mediated recognition of viral peptides presented on MHC Class I