Influenza-derived peptide–MHC complex (Influenza pMHC)

The influenza-derived peptide–MHC complex is a molecular assembly consisting of a viral peptide fragment (typically from conserved internal proteins like Matrix protein 1 or Nucleoprotein) bound to a Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecule on the surface of infected or antigen-presenting cells (Source 1.3.3). This complex serves as the primary signal for the adaptive immune system, specifically recognized by the T-cell receptors (TCRs) of CD8+ cytotoxic T cells or CD4+ helper T cells (Source 1.3.4). In therapeutic contexts, this complex is targeted to develop universal influenza vaccines and advanced immunotherapies like TCR-engineered T cells (TCR-T) that can provide broad protection across different viral strains (Source 1.1.4, 1.2.4). By targeting conserved epitopes such as the M1 58-66 peptide (GILGFVFTL) presented by HLA-A*02:01, researchers aim to bypass the limitations of traditional antibody-based vaccines that are susceptible to antigenic drift (Source 1.2.1, 1.4.3). These therapies work by enhancing the body's ability to identify and destroy cells harboring the virus, potentially offering a more durable and cross-reactive defense against seasonal and pandemic influenza (Source 1.4.1).

Other names

Flu pMHCInfluenza peptide-HLA complexM1 58-66/HLA-A*02:01 complexGILGFVFTL-HLA-A*02:01Influenza antigen-MHC complex

Recognition by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ or CD4+ T cells, triggering an adaptive immune response and targeted lysis of infected cells.