Matrix metalloproteinase-1 peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex (MMP1–HLA-A*02:01)

The Matrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex is a specific peptide-major histocompatibility complex (pMHC) that serves as a target for cancer immunotherapy. MMP1, also known as interstitial collagenase, is an enzyme responsible for degrading Type I, II, and III collagen, and its overexpression is strongly associated with tumor invasion, metastasis, and poor prognosis in various cancers such as lung, breast, and colorectal carcinoma (PMID: 22552253). In this complex, a processed peptide fragment of the MMP1 protein is loaded onto the HLA-A*02:01 molecule and presented on the cell surface for surveillance by CD8+ T cells. This pMHC is considered a tumor-associated antigen (TAA) because it is presented at significantly higher densities on malignant cells compared to normal tissues (PMID: 15642110). Therapeutic approaches targeting this complex involve the use of T-cell receptor (TCR) engineered T cells or bispecific molecules that can specifically bind the MMP1/HLA-A*02:01 interface to induce a potent anti-tumor immune response. However, development must carefully manage the risk of cross-reactivity with similar peptides or toxicity in normal tissues where MMP1 plays a role in physiological tissue remodeling.

Other names

MMP1-derived peptide presented by HLA-A*02:01MMP1/HLA-A*02:01 complexMatrix metalloproteinase-1 (MMP1) peptide-MHC complexMMP1-A2 complex

Recognition of the specific peptide-MHC complex by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on cytotoxic T lymphocytes, leading to targeted cell lysis and cytokine release.