Major histocompatibility complex class I antigen A*02 (HLA-A*02)

Major histocompatibility complex class I antigen A*02 (commonly abbreviated HLA-A*02 or HLA-A2) is a member of the HLA class I family of glycoproteins that present short peptide antigens (typically 8–11 amino acids) derived from intracellular proteins on the surface of nearly all nucleated cells for recognition by CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes. This process is essential for immune surveillance, enabling the detection and elimination of cells harboring intracellular pathogens (such as viruses) or undergoing malignant transformation. The HLA-A*02 allele is one of the most prevalent and well-studied HLA class I alleles in human populations and is commonly used as a restriction element in T-cell-based immunotherapies and vaccine development. Its broad polymorphism confers distinct peptide-binding characteristics, impacting disease susceptibility, autoimmunity, transplantation compatibility, and immunotherapeutic strategies.

Other names

HLA-A*02:01 (the most common allele)HLA-A2HLA-A*02 antigenHuman leukocyte antigen A2

HLA-A*02 presents endogenous peptide antigens on the cell surface for recognition by CD8+ cytotoxic T cells Cancer vaccines or immune therapies may utilize HLA-A*02-restricted peptides to stimulate T cell responses against tumor cells