HLA-A*11:01–CMV pp65 epitope peptide complex (HLA-A*11:01–pp65 complex)

The HLA-A*11:01–CMV pp65 epitope peptide complex is a molecular assembly consisting of the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) class I molecule A*11:01, beta-2 microglobulin, and an immunodominant peptide derived from the Cytomegalovirus (CMV) 65 kDa phosphoprotein (pp65) (PubMed: 17484809). This complex is expressed on the surface of CMV-infected cells and serves as a critical signal for the host's cellular immune system (Frontiers in Immunology, 2017). Specifically, it is recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), triggering an immune response that includes the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines like interferon-gamma and the direct lysis of the infected cell (Journal for ImmunoTherapy of Cancer, 2024). In clinical settings, this complex is a primary target for the development of adoptive T-cell therapies, TCR-engineered T cells (TCR-T), and vaccines aimed at preventing or treating CMV reactivation in immunocompromised patients, such as those undergoing hematopoietic stem cell or solid organ transplantation (Blood Advances, 2022). The specificity of the interaction between the TCR and the pMHC complex allows for highly targeted elimination of infected cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissues (NIH, 2024). Research into this complex also extends to its use as a target for TCR-like antibodies and redirected T-cell therapies in oncology (Tandfonline, 2023).

Other names

HLA-A*11:01–CMV pp65 peptide complexHLA-A*11:01–pp65(16-24) complexHLA-A*11:01–pp65(501-509) complexHLA-A*11:01–ATVQGQNLK complexHLA-A*11:01–GPISGHVLK complexpMHC complex (HLA-A*11:01/pp65)

Recognition by specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ T cells, leading to T-cell activation, release of cytotoxic granules (granzyme B, perforin), and lysis of CMV-infected cells.