HLA-DR3-restricted arrestin-specific CD4+ T cell

HLA-DR3-restricted CD4+ T cells specific for arrestin peptide 291–310 represent a specialized population of autoreactive helper T lymphocytes that play a critical role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune uveitis (de Smet et al., 1990). These cells possess T-cell receptors (TCRs) that specifically recognize the 291–310 amino acid sequence of S-arrestin (also known as S-antigen), a protein primarily located in retinal photoreceptor cells, when presented by the HLA-DR3 (HLA-DRB1*03:01) MHC class II molecule (Wildner & Diedrichs-Möhring, 2003). Upon activation, these autoreactive T cells infiltrate the eye and secrete pro-inflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma and IL-17, orchestrating an inflammatory response that leads to retinal tissue destruction and vision loss (Caspi, 2010). In therapeutic contexts, these cells are targeted for modulation to restore immune tolerance, often through broad-spectrum immunosuppressants like cyclosporine or experimental antigen-specific tolerization strategies. Monitoring the frequency and activation state of this specific T-cell population serves as a potential biomarker for disease activity and treatment efficacy in ocular inflammatory conditions.

Other names

S-antigen-specific CD4+ T cellArrestin peptide 291-310-specific T cellUveitogenic CD4+ T lymphocyteSAG-specific CD4+ T cell

Inhibition of T-cell receptor signaling, suppression of T-cell proliferation, and reduction of pro-inflammatory cytokine secretion.