Mycobacterium tuberculosis multi-epitope antigens (Mtb multi-epitope antigens)

Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) multi-epitope antigens are engineered constructs designed to elicit a broad and potent immune response against tuberculosis by combining multiple immunodominant epitopes from various Mtb proteins. These antigens are processed and presented on host Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I and II molecules, where they are recognized by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD8+ and CD4+ T cells, respectively, and by B-cell receptors (BCRs) to stimulate antibody production [3, 13]. By incorporating epitopes from diverse proteins such as Ag85A, Ag85B, ESAT-6, and CFP-10, these multi-epitope targets aim to overcome the limitations of single-antigen vaccines and provide protection against active, latent, and drug-resistant TB strains [1, 6]. They function by activating the adaptive immune system, leading to the secretion of protective cytokines like interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and the generation of long-lasting memory cells [8, 15]. Therapeutic strategies involving these antigens often include the use of adjuvants, such as TLR agonists, and delivery systems to enhance their immunogenicity and ensure broad population coverage across different HLA alleles [5, 10]. While many candidates are currently in the in silico or preclinical stages, they represent a promising frontier for next-generation tuberculosis vaccines [3, 12].

Other names

Mtb multi-epitope vaccine candidatesMtb poly-epitope antigensMtb chimeric antigensMtb multi-epitope constructsTuberculosis multi-epitope antigens

Immunostimulation through the induction of Th1/Th17 cellular immunity and humoral immunity activation via Toll-like receptor (TLR) signaling and MHC-mediated antigen presentation.