Poliovirus capsid-specific CD8+ T-cell receptor (PV-TCR)

Poliovirus capsid-specific CD8+ T-cell receptors (TCRs) are specialized immune receptors that recognize viral peptides, primarily derived from the VP1-VP3 capsid proteins, when presented on MHC Class I molecules [1]. These TCRs are central to the efficacy of oncolytic poliovirus therapies, such as PVSRIPO, which is currently utilized in clinical trials for recurrent glioblastoma and other solid tumors [2]. Because a vast majority of the global population has been vaccinated against poliovirus, most individuals possess a pre-existing reservoir of memory CD8+ T cells equipped with these specific TCRs. When an oncolytic poliovirus infects tumor cells or is processed by antigen-presenting cells, these memory T cells are rapidly recruited to the tumor microenvironment through the cross-presentation of viral antigens [1, 3]. This 'recall' response triggers a potent pro-inflammatory environment, characterized by the release of Type I interferons and other cytokines, which helps to overcome the immunosuppressive nature of the tumor and promotes a broader anti-tumor immune response [2, 3]. Consequently, these TCRs serve as a critical bridge between established anti-viral immunity and therapeutic anti-cancer activity. References: [1] Brown, M. C., et al. (2020). Nature Communications; [2] Gromeier, M., et al. (2018). Cancer Immunology Research; [3] Brown, M. C., et al. (2017). Science Translational Medicine.

Other names

Poliovirus-specific T-cell receptorPV-reactive CD8+ TCRAnti-poliovirus CD8+ T-cell receptorPoliovirus capsid-derived peptide-recognizing TCR

Recognition of poliovirus capsid-derived peptides (e.g., from VP1, VP2, or VP3 proteins) presented on MHC Class I molecules by CD8+ T cells, leading to T-cell activation, proliferation, and the targeted lysis of cells presenting these viral antigens [1, 3].