Interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-2-derived peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (IL-13Rα2-pMHC)

The Interleukin-13 receptor subunit alpha-2 (IL-13Rα2)-derived peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) is a specialized molecular target used in cancer immunotherapy, particularly for high-grade gliomas. IL-13Rα2 is a high-affinity decoy receptor for IL-13 that is significantly overexpressed in glioblastoma multiforme (GBM) and other solid tumors, while exhibiting very low expression in normal tissues. Specific peptides derived from this protein, most notably the HLA-A*0201-restricted epitope IL-13Rα2(345–353), are processed and presented on the cell surface by MHC class I molecules. This complex acts as a specific signature for malignant cells, enabling the immune system to distinguish them from healthy cells. Therapeutic strategies targeting this complex include peptide-based vaccines, dendritic cell vaccines, and engineered T-cell receptor (TCR) therapies designed to trigger a potent cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response. By focusing on this specific peptide-MHC interaction, researchers aim to develop highly selective treatments that minimize systemic toxicity while effectively eradicating invasive tumor cells.

Other names

IL-13RA2 peptide-HLA complexIL-13Ralpha2-HLA-A*0201 complexIL-13Rα2(345–353) peptide-MHCIL-13Rα2 antigen-MHC complex

Recognition of the specific peptide-MHC complex by the T-cell receptor (TCR) of CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, leading to the targeted destruction of cells expressing the IL-13Rα2 antigen.