Myelin peptide-specific T-cell receptor (Myelin-specific TCR)

Myelin peptide-specific T-cell receptors (TCRs) are alpha-beta heterodimeric surface receptors expressed on T lymphocytes that specifically recognize epitopes derived from myelin sheath proteins, including myelin basic protein (MBP), proteolipid protein (PLP), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG). These receptors bind to myelin peptides presented by specific Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, primarily Class II, on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (Goverman, 2009, Nat Rev Immunol). In the context of Multiple Sclerosis (MS), the activation of T cells bearing these receptors triggers an inflammatory cascade that leads to the destruction of the myelin sheath and subsequent axonal loss (Sospedra & Martin, 2005, Annu Rev Immunol). Because these TCRs are the primary drivers of the autoimmune response in MS, they represent high-precision therapeutic targets. Drug development strategies include TCR-based vaccines designed to induce anti-idiotypic regulatory responses, altered peptide ligands (APLs) that act as partial agonists to shift cytokine profiles, and soluble peptide-MHC complexes intended to induce peripheral tolerance or anergy in the pathogenic T-cell population (Vandenbark et al., 2008, J Neuroimmunol; Lutterotti & Martin, 2008, Lancet Neurol).

Other names

Myelin-reactive T-cell receptorMBP-specific T-cell receptorPLP-specific T-cell receptorMOG-specific T-cell receptorAutoreactive T-cell receptor

Induction of antigen-specific immune tolerance, anti-idiotypic immune response against specific TCR V-beta chains, and immune deviation from pro-inflammatory (Th1/Th17) to regulatory (Th2/Treg) phenotypes.