Pathogen-derived peptide–HLA complexes from Aspergillus fumigatus (pHLA-Aspergillus)

Pathogen-derived peptide–HLA complexes from Aspergillus fumigatus are molecular structures formed by the binding of fungal-derived peptides to human leukocyte antigen (HLA) molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells or infected host cells (Bacher et al., 2014, PubMed: 25239239). These complexes serve as the primary recognition signal for the adaptive immune system, specifically for T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD4+ helper and CD8+ cytotoxic T cells (Stuehler et al., 2011, PubMed: 21646595). In the context of Aspergillus fumigatus, a major opportunistic fungal pathogen, these pHLA complexes are critical for initiating protective immune responses against invasive aspergillosis (Perruccio et al., 2005, PubMed: 15833891). Therapeutic interventions targeting these complexes include adoptive T-cell therapy, where Aspergillus-specific T cells are expanded ex vivo and infused into immunocompromised patients to restore fungal immunity (Einsele et al., 2002, PubMed: 11781222). Additionally, research into TCR-engineered T cells and peptide-based vaccines focuses on these complexes to provide highly specific antifungal protection. Understanding the repertoire of immunodominant peptides presented by HLA molecules is essential for developing precision immunotherapies and diagnostic tools for fungal infections.

Other names

Aspergillus fumigatus peptide-MHC complexespMHC complexesAspergillus-specific HLA-peptide complexesAf-pMHCAspergillus-derived HLA ligands

Recognition by T-cell receptors (TCRs) on CD4+ or CD8+ T cells to initiate a targeted immune response against fungal cells or infected host cells.