HIV-1 peptide-MHC class I complex (HIV-1 pMHC-I)

The HIV-1 peptide-MHC class I complex (pMHC-I) is a molecular assembly consisting of an HIV-derived antigenic peptide bound to a Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecule. This complex is presented on the surface of antigen-presenting cells, such as dendritic cells, where it serves as the primary ligand for HIV-1-specific CD8+ T-cell receptors (TCRs). The interaction between the pMHC-I and the TCR is the critical first step in the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), which are responsible for identifying and killing HIV-infected cells. In therapeutic contexts, such as dendritic cell vaccines, allogeneic or autologous DCs are loaded with HIV antigens to present these pMHC-I complexes and stimulate a robust cellular immune response. This strategy aims to overcome the immune evasion mechanisms of HIV, such as the downregulation of MHC-I by the viral Nef protein, and to establish long-term viral control or a functional cure.

Other names

HIV-1 pMHC-I complexHIV-1 peptide-HLA class I complexHIV-1 antigen-MHC complexHIV-1 peptide-MHC-I complex on allogeneic dendritic cellsHIV-1 pMHCHIV-1 peptide-MHC class I complex

Stimulation of HIV-1-specific CD8+ T cells through the interaction of the peptide-MHC complex with the T-cell receptor, leading to the expansion of cytotoxic T lymphocytes that target and lyse HIV-infected cells.