Neoantigen-reactive T cell activation

Neoantigen-reactive T cell (NRT) activation refers to the process by which T cells specifically recognize and respond to neoantigens—peptides derived from tumor-specific mutations presented on major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules of cancer cells. This immune response is highly specific, targeting only tumor cells while sparing normal tissues, making it a promising approach for cancer immunotherapy. Activation occurs through TCR engagement with neoantigen-MHC complex and co-stimulatory signals. Activated NRTs upregulate surface markers such as PD-1, LAG-3, TIM-3, 4-1BB, CD39 and secrete cytokines like IFN-γ. Adoptive transfer therapies using enriched populations of NRTs have shown clinical responses.