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

Pathogenic T-cell receptors (TCRs) recognizing myelin antigens are the primary mediators of autoimmune damage in the central nervous system, particularly in Multiple Sclerosis (MS) (PubMed: 15608515). These receptors, located on the surface of CD4+ and CD8+ T cells, recognize specific epitopes from myelin proteins such as myelin basic protein (MBP), proteolipid protein (PLP), and myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules (UniProt: P02686, P60201). Upon recognition, these TCRs initiate a signaling cascade that leads to T-cell activation, cytokine production, and the recruitment of other inflammatory cells, ultimately resulting in the destruction of the myelin sheath (PubMed: 21115680). Because these TCRs are central to the pathogenesis of MS, they represent a high-value target for antigen-specific immunotherapy. Therapeutic approaches include the use of altered peptide ligands, TCR-specific vaccines, and soluble MHC-peptide complexes designed to induce immune tolerance or selectively deplete the autoreactive T-cell population (PubMed: 12060353). By targeting only the myelin-reactive TCRs, these therapies aim to treat the underlying cause of MS while avoiding the systemic immunosuppression associated with conventional treatments (PubMed: 25227314).

Other names

Autoreactive T-cell receptorMyelin-specific T-cell receptorMBP-reactive TCRMOG-reactive TCRPLP-reactive TCR

Antigen-specific immune modulation via competitive binding to MHC molecules, induction of T-cell anergy, and expansion of antigen-specific regulatory T-cells (Tregs) to suppress neuroinflammation.