PRAME peptide–HLA complex (PRAME–HLA)

The **PRAME peptide–HLA complex** is a molecular target consisting of a fragment of the intracellular tumor antigen PRAME (Preferentially Expressed Antigen in Melanoma) presented on the surface of cells by human leukocyte antigen (HLA) class I molecules, predominantly HLA-A*02:01 and related alleles. PRAME is a cancer-testis antigen normally restricted to reproductive tissues but is overexpressed in many cancers, including melanoma and acute myeloid leukemia[1][4]. As PRAME is not exposed on the cell surface in its full-length protein form, T cell or antibody-based therapeutics must recognize the specific peptide epitopes derived from PRAME that are processed by the proteasome and loaded onto HLA class I for cell-surface display. This complex serves as a neoantigenic marker, allowing highly specific targeting by TCR-mimic antibodies, engineered TCRs, or other cellular therapies. Targeting PRAME peptide–HLA complexes has shown promise for immunotherapy of several solid tumors and hematological malignancies, but challenges include HLA-restriction and potential for immune escape due to loss or heterogeneity of HLA or PRAME expression[2][4][6][7].

Other names

Preferentially Expressed Antigen in Melanoma peptide–HLA complexPRAME-derived peptide–MHC complexPRAME antigenic peptide–HLA complex

Targeted cytotoxicity via TCR or TCR-mimic binding to tumor-associated PRAME peptide presented on HLA; triggers T cell or redirected effector cell killing of PRAME-expressing tumor cells[3][4][5][7].