Human telomerase reverse transcriptase peptide-HLA class II complex (hTERT-HLA-II)

The human telomerase reverse transcriptase (hTERT) peptide presented on HLA class II molecules is a prominent target in cancer immunotherapy. hTERT is the catalytic subunit of telomerase, an enzyme that maintains telomere length and is overexpressed in over 85% of human cancers, providing a broad therapeutic window (Source: PubMed ID 11929820). Unlike HLA class I targets that interact with cytotoxic T cells, hTERT peptides on HLA class II molecules are recognized by CD4+ T helper cells. These CD4+ cells play a pivotal role in the immune system by secreting cytokines that support the expansion and persistence of CD8+ killer T cells and by potentially exerting direct anti-tumor effects (Source: PubMed ID 35121874). Therapeutic interventions targeting this complex primarily include peptide-based vaccines like UV1 and GV1001, which aim to prime the immune system against telomerase-positive cells (Source: PubMed ID 11007150). Additionally, researchers are developing TCR-engineered T-cell therapies designed to specifically bind these hTERT-HLA class II complexes. Clinical applications focus on a variety of malignancies, including melanoma, prostate cancer, and non-small cell lung cancer, where hTERT expression is a hallmark of cellular immortality.

Other names

hTERT-derived CD4+ epitopehTERT pMHC IITelomerase reverse transcriptase HLA class II antigenhTERT-derived peptide-MHC II complexhTERT-specific MHC class II-restricted antigen

Induction of hTERT-specific CD4+ T-cell responses to enhance anti-tumor immunity and provide help for CD8+ T-cell recruitment and activation.