Melanoma antigen recognized by T-cells 1 (MLANA) (MLANA)

Melanoma antigen recognized by T-cells 1 (MLANA), frequently referred to as MART-1 or Melan-A, is a single-pass type III transmembrane protein primarily localized in the melanosomes, endoplasmic reticulum, and Golgi apparatus. It plays an essential role in melanosome biogenesis by interacting with and ensuring the stability and proper trafficking of PMEL and GPR143, which are critical for melanin production. MLANA is a lineage-specific differentiation antigen expressed exclusively in melanocytes, the retinal pigment epithelium, and the vast majority of melanoma tumors. Due to its restricted expression profile and high immunogenicity, MLANA has become a significant diagnostic biomarker for identifying melanocytic lesions and a prominent target for cancer immunotherapy. Therapeutic strategies under development or in clinical trials include TCR-engineered T-cells (TCR-T) and peptide-based vaccines designed to provoke a robust cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response against MLANA-positive malignant cells. A major challenge in targeting this molecule is the potential for on-target, off-tumor toxicity against normal melanocytes, which can lead to autoimmune-like conditions such as vitiligo and uveitis.

Other names

MART-1Melan-AMART1Antigen LB39-AAAntigen SK29-AAProtein Melan-A

Induction of T-cell mediated cytotoxicity via MHC class I-restricted antigen presentation