Human epidermal growth factor receptor 2-derived peptide epitopes presented on MHC class I and II (HER2 pMHC)

HER2/neu-derived peptide epitopes presented on MHC class I and II are specific fragments of the Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 protein that serve as targets for T-cell mediated immunotherapy (PMID: 22415475). These epitopes are generated through intracellular proteasomal processing and are subsequently displayed on the cell surface by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules. MHC class I-restricted peptides, such as the E75 (HER2 369–377) and GP2 (HER2 654–662) sequences, are recognized by CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, which can directly induce apoptosis in tumor cells (PMID: 25103451). Conversely, MHC class II-restricted peptides, like AE37, activate CD4+ helper T cells that provide essential cytokines and support for long-term immune memory (PMID: 21149655). This target is distinct from the surface protein targeted by monoclonal antibodies like trastuzumab, as it allows the immune system to target fragments derived from any part of the HER2 molecule, including intracellular domains. Therapeutic interventions primarily involve peptide-based vaccines and TCR-engineered T-cell therapies aimed at treating HER2-overexpressing malignancies such as breast, gastric, and ovarian cancers.

Other names

HER2/neu epitopesErbB2 peptide-MHC complexesE75 peptideGP2 peptideAE37 peptideHER2-derived HLA-restricted peptides

Stimulation of antigen-specific T-cell mediated immunity through the recognition of HER2-derived peptides presented by MHC molecules on the surface of tumor cells or antigen-presenting cells.