HLA-A*02:01-gp100 (154-162) peptide-MHC complex (HLA-A2/gp100(154))

The HLA-A*02:01-gp100 (154-162) peptide-MHC complex is a therapeutic target in the treatment of melanoma, consisting of a peptide fragment from the melanocyte-specific protein gp100 (PMEL) presented by the HLA-A*02:01 molecule. The specific epitope, spanning residues 154 to 162 (sequence: KTWGQYWQV), is one of the most abundant naturally processed gp100 antigens on the surface of melanoma cells. In clinical applications, this peptide is often modified (e.g., by amino acid substitution at anchor or TCR-contact residues) to enhance its binding affinity to the MHC molecule or to increase the activation of specific T-cell receptors. When presented on dendritic cells, either through peptide pulsing or mRNA electroporation, this complex serves as a potent stimulus for the expansion of cytotoxic CD8+ T lymphocytes. Therapeutic interventions targeting this complex include dendritic cell vaccines, peptide vaccines, and adoptive T-cell therapies using engineered TCRs. Safety considerations include potential autoimmune reactions against normal melanocytes, which can manifest as vitiligo or ocular inflammation.

Other names

gp100:154-162KTWGQYWQVPMEL:154-162G154 peptideHLA-A*02:01/gp100(154-162) complex

Presentation of the gp100-derived peptide to CD8+ T cells via the T-cell receptor (TCR), leading to the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and subsequent lysis of tumor cells.