Host adaptive immune receptors (T-cell receptor and B-cell receptor) (TCR/BCR)

Host adaptive immune receptors, specifically T-cell receptors (TCRs) and B-cell receptors (BCRs), are the primary molecular components of the avian immune system that recognize antigens expressed by the Herpesvirus of Turkeys (HVT) vector [1]. HVT is a non-pathogenic alphaherpesvirus used globally as a live vaccine vector to deliver protective antigens from Marek’s Disease Virus (MDV) and other poultry pathogens [2]. These receptors function by binding to specific viral epitopes; BCRs recognize native protein structures to initiate antibody production, while TCRs recognize processed peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules to trigger cellular immunity [3]. The interaction between these receptors and HVT-expressed antigens, such as glycoprotein B (gB), is critical for establishing protective immunity against Marek's Disease, a highly contagious lymphoproliferative disorder [4]. In the poultry industry, these receptors are the functional targets of recombinant HVT (rHVT) vaccines, which are engineered to elicit robust, lifelong protection without the virulence of wild-type MDV [5]. Understanding the specificity and activation thresholds of these receptors is essential for optimizing vaccine efficacy and overcoming challenges like maternal antibody interference [6].

Other names

T-cell receptorB-cell receptorAvian adaptive immune receptorsMarek's disease virus-specific receptorsChicken adaptive immune receptors

Activation of host T and B cells through the recognition of HVT-expressed viral antigens presented by MHC molecules, leading to protective immunity.