HLA-A2-presented tumor-associated antigen

An HLA-A2-presented tumor-associated antigen refers to any antigenic (peptide) fragment derived from tumor proteins that is processed inside tumor cells and presented on the cell surface by the major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class I molecule HLA-A2. These antigens are recognized by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs), driving immune responses against tumor cells that express both the antigen and HLA-A2. Common sources of such antigens include cancer-testis antigens (e.g., NY-ESO-1, MAGE family), oncofetal proteins (e.g., CEA), oncogenic proteins (e.g., HER2/neu, mutant p53), and other neoplasm-associated proteins. Recognition is HLA-A2-restricted, meaning these immune responses are only triggered when the distinctive HLA allele is present. This molecular interaction underlies the rationale for HLA-A2-restricted peptide vaccines and other immunotherapies targeting cancer. Therapeutic targeting may also have safety concerns due to incomplete antigen specificity or expression of certain antigens in some normal tissues[1][2][4][5][6].

Other names

HLA-A2-restricted tumor antigenHLA-A2-presented cancer antigenHLA-A2-restricted peptide antigen

Induction of cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response via presentation of tumor-derived peptide antigens on HLA-A2 molecules to CD8+ T cells[2][6]; Activation of tumor-specific immune responses; killing of tumor cells recognized by presented peptides[1]