Mucosal-associated invariant T-cell receptor (MAIT TCR)

The Mucosal-associated invariant T-cell (MAIT) receptor is a semi-invariant T-cell receptor (TCR) primarily composed of a conserved alpha chain (Vα7.2-Jα33 in humans) paired with a limited set of beta chains. Unlike conventional TCRs that recognize peptide antigens presented by MHC molecules, the MAIT receptor specifically recognizes small-molecule metabolites derived from the riboflavin (vitamin B2) biosynthetic pathway. These metabolites are presented by the highly conserved MHC class I-related protein 1 (MR1). MAIT cells are highly abundant in human blood, liver, and mucosal tissues, where they serve as rapid responders to microbial infections by secreting pro-inflammatory cytokines like IFN-γ and IL-17 and exerting direct cytotoxicity. Due to their unique ligand specificity and evolutionary conservation, the MAIT receptor and its interaction with MR1 are being explored as therapeutic targets for infectious diseases, cancer immunotherapy, and the management of chronic inflammatory conditions.

Other names

MAIT receptorVα7.2-Jα33 T-cell receptorTRAV1-2-TRAJ33 receptorInvariant T-cell receptor

Modulation of MAIT cell activation through the recognition of MR1-presented ligands, leading to cytokine release and cytotoxic activity.