New York esophageal squamous cell carcinoma 1 peptide presented by Human Leukocyte Antigen A*0201 (NY-ESO-1/HLA-A*0201)

The NY-ESO-1 peptide presented by HLA-A*0201 is a highly specific tumor-associated antigen complex and a primary target for cancer immunotherapy. NY-ESO-1, encoded by the CTAG1B gene, is a member of the cancer-testis antigen family, characterized by restricted expression in immune-privileged germ cells and aberrant re-expression in various malignancies such as synovial sarcoma and melanoma. The immunodominant peptide SLLMWITQC (residues 157-165) is processed intracellularly and displayed on the cell surface by the HLA-A*0201 molecule, allowing the immune system to detect intracellular oncogenic proteins. Therapeutic interventions, including TCR-engineered T-cells and bispecific T-cell engagers, are designed to bind this specific peptide-MHC complex with high affinity. This interaction triggers a potent cytotoxic T-lymphocyte response, resulting in the selective destruction of tumor cells while minimizing damage to healthy somatic tissues. Because of its high immunogenicity and restricted expression profile, this target remains a cornerstone of precision oncology for HLA-A*02:01 positive patients.

Other names

NY-ESO-1:157-165/HLA-A*0201CTAG1B peptide/HLA-A*0201 complexSLLMWITQC/HLA-A*0201NY-ESO-1 pMHCCancer/testis antigen 1B peptide/HLA-A*0201

Recognition of the specific peptide-MHC complex by engineered T-cell receptors (TCRs) or TCR-bispecific molecules, leading to T-cell activation, secretion of cytotoxic cytokines (e.g., IFN-gamma), and direct lysis of tumor cells.