Rhophilin-associated tail protein 1-derived peptide presented on MHC class I (ROPN1-pMHC)

Rhophilin-associated tail protein 1 (ROPN1) is a cancer-testis antigen that is normally restricted to the testis but becomes aberrantly expressed in various malignancies, most notably triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). The target consists of specific immunogenic peptides derived from the ROPN1 protein that are processed and presented on the cell surface by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules, such as HLA-A*02:01. This peptide-MHC complex serves as a highly specific signature for tumor cells, allowing them to be distinguished from healthy somatic tissues that do not express ROPN1. Therapeutic strategies targeting the ROPN1-pMHC complex primarily involve the use of engineered T-cell receptor (TCR) therapies or TCR-like antibodies designed to recognize the specific peptide-HLA configuration. By binding to this complex, these therapies can trigger a potent cytotoxic immune response against the cancer cells. Because ROPN1 expression is minimal in vital organs, it is considered a promising candidate for immunotherapy with a potentially wide therapeutic window, although monitoring for off-target effects remains a critical component of clinical development.

Other names

ROPN1 peptide-HLA complexRhophilin-associated tail protein 1 peptide-MHC complexROPN1-HLA-A*02:01Cancer-testis antigen ROPN1 peptide

Targeting of the peptide-MHC complex by engineered T-cell receptors (TCRs) or TCR-like antibodies to induce directed T-cell cytotoxicity against tumor cells expressing the ROPN1 antigen.