Major histocompatibility complex class I molecule presenting MAGE-A4 peptide (null)

The **major histocompatibility complex class I molecule presenting MAGE-A4 peptide** refers specifically to a complex in which an MHC class I protein (commonly HLA-A*02:01 in humans) displays a peptide antigen derived from the MAGE-A4 (melanoma-associated antigen 4) protein on the surface of a cell[1][10]. MAGE-A4 belongs to a family of cancer-testis antigens highly expressed in various tumor types but largely absent from normal somatic tissues[2][5][6]. The best characterized peptide is the decamer GVYDGREHTV, residues 230-239 of the MAGE-A4 protein[1][9][10]. The MHC I-MAGE-A4 complex is recognized by specific CD8+ T cell receptors, enabling immune surveillance and providing a basis for targeted immunotherapies such as peptide vaccines and engineered T cell therapies[2][3][5][6][7]. This target is particularly notable in tumors such as non-small cell lung cancer, esophageal cancers, ovarian carcinomas, and sarcomas, where MAGE-A4 is frequently and selectively expressed[6][8][9]. Therapeutic interest lies in leveraging immune recognition of this complex, with safety profiles generally favorable due to MAGE-A4's highly restricted expression in normal tissue. However, attention to HLA restriction and possible cross-reactivity within the MAGE family remains warranted[2][5][6]. No conventional small-molecule drugs directly bind this complex; activity is primarily via biologic or cellular immunotherapies.

Other names

HLA-A*0201:MAGE-A4 complexHLA-A2:MAGE-A4 complexMHC class I:MAGE-A4 peptide complex

Presentation of MAGE-A4-derived peptide antigens to CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes, inducing immune recognition and lysis of tumor cells expressing the MAGE-A4 antigen[1][3][7][9] Antitumor activity via engineered T cells (TCR-T, adoptive immunotherapy)[2][3]