HIV-1 Envelope glycoprotein-derived peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex class I (HIV-1 Env-pMHC-I)

HIV-1 Env-derived peptides presented by MHC class I are antigenic complexes formed by the association of proteasome-cleaved fragments of the HIV-1 envelope glycoprotein (gp160) with Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules. These complexes are displayed on the surface of HIV-infected cells, serving as the primary molecular signature for recognition by CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (PubMed: 30104375). The envelope protein, comprising gp120 and gp41 subunits, is a major source of these epitopes, although its high variability poses a challenge for consistent immune recognition (UniProt: P04578). Therapeutic strategies targeting these pMHC complexes include T-cell receptor (TCR)-engineered T cells and bispecific molecules like ImmTAVs, which aim to redirect the immune system to eliminate the latent HIV reservoir (PubMed: 31534015). Successful targeting requires the identification of conserved epitopes and is restricted by the patient's specific Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) haplotype (PubMed: 25692438). Safety considerations include potential cross-reactivity with self-peptides and the risk of cytokine release syndrome during treatment (PubMed: 28416618).

Other names

HIV-1 Env peptide-HLA complexHIV-1 gp120/gp41 peptides presented by MHC-IHIV-1 Env-MHC-I complexHIV-1 Envelope peptide-MHC class I complex

Redirection of T-cell cytotoxicity toward HIV-infected cells through high-affinity binding to specific peptide-MHC class I complexes.