Patient-specific tumor-associated antigenic peptides presented on MHC class I and II of autologous dendritic cells (NeoAg-MHC-DC)

Patient-specific tumor-associated antigenic peptides presented on MHC class I and II of autologous dendritic cells represent a highly personalized approach to cancer immunotherapy [1]. These peptides, known as neoantigens, are derived from non-synonymous somatic mutations unique to an individual patient's tumor, ensuring they are not expressed in normal tissues and can bypass central thymic tolerance [2]. Dendritic cells (DCs) serve as the primary vehicle for this target, acting as professional antigen-presenting cells that process and display these neoantigens on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules [3]. MHC class I molecules present peptides to CD8+ cytotoxic T cells, while MHC class II molecules present to CD4+ helper T cells, a dual activation that is essential for a robust and memory-forming anti-tumor response [4]. Drugs interacting with this target, such as personalized mRNA vaccines or ex vivo-loaded DC vaccines, aim to "train" the patient's immune system to recognize these specific molecular signatures [1, 2]. This strategy is particularly relevant in cancers with high mutational burdens, where the likelihood of identifying immunogenic neoantigens is increased [4]. Despite its potential, challenges include the complex bioinformatic pipeline required for neoantigen prediction and the logistical hurdles of manufacturing patient-specific treatments in a clinically relevant timeframe [3].

Other names

Personalized neoantigensTumor-specific antigens (TSAs)NeoepitopespMHC complexesTumor-associated antigens (TAAs)

Active immunotherapy via antigen presentation to prime and expand tumor-specific CD4+ and CD8+ T cells [1, 3].