Major histocompatibility complex class II presenting myelin basic protein 83-99 (MHC II-MBP83-99)

The MHC class II molecule presenting the myelin basic protein (MBP) peptide fragment 83-99 (MHC II-MBP83-99) is a pivotal immunological complex in the development of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) (Wucherpfennig et al., 1994). In genetically susceptible individuals, particularly those carrying the HLA-DRB1*15:01 allele, this complex is formed when antigen-presenting cells display the immunodominant MBP83-99 epitope to CD4+ T cells (Krogsgaard et al., 2000). This recognition event triggers an autoimmune cascade, leading to the demyelination of neurons in the central nervous system (O'Connor et al., 2015). As a therapeutic target, MHC II-MBP83-99 is utilized in antigen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT) to restore immune tolerance. Drugs like Glatiramer acetate compete for binding to these MHC molecules, while experimental therapies like ATX-MS-1467 use soluble peptides to induce T-cell anergy or promote regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion (Streeter et al., 2015). This approach aims to selectively silence the pathogenic immune response without compromising overall systemic immunity.

Other names

HLA-DR2-MBP83-99 complexHLA-DRB1*15:01-MBP83-99Myelin basic protein 83-99 peptide-MHC complexMBP83-99-HLA-DR2

Induction of antigen-specific immune tolerance through T-cell anergy, deletion, or the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs), and competitive inhibition of peptide binding to MHC class II molecules.