HLA class II molecules presenting Wilms' tumor 1-derived helper peptides (HLA-II/WT1)

HLA class II molecules presenting Wilms' tumor 1 (WT1)-derived helper peptides are a specialized target for cancer immunotherapy [1] (Cheever et al., 2009, Clin Cancer Res). WT1 is a transcription factor that is highly overexpressed in various hematological malignancies and solid tumors, making it a top-ranked target for cancer vaccines [1]. The presentation of WT1-derived peptides by HLA class II molecules, such as HLA-DRB1, is essential for the activation of CD4+ helper T cells [2] (Ochi et al., 2009, Blood). These CD4+ T cells provide critical help to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and can also exert direct anti-tumor effects through cytokine secretion [3] (Maslak et al., 2018, Blood Adv). Therapeutic agents like Galinpepimut-S (GPS) are designed to target these complexes to induce a robust, multi-epitope immune response [3]. By engaging the HLA class II pathway, these therapies aim to overcome immune tolerance and establish long-lasting anti-tumor memory [4] (Krug et al., 2010, Cancer Res). Monitoring WT1 expression and HLA genotype is vital for patient selection and assessing therapeutic efficacy [3].

Other names

MHC class II-WT1 peptide complexHLA-DR/WT1 complexWT1-specific HLA class II complexWilms' tumor 1-derived helper peptide-HLA class II complex

Induction of specific CD4+ T-helper cell responses that enhance and sustain cytotoxic CD8+ T-cell activity against WT1-expressing tumor cells [2, 3].