SIINFEKL–H-2Kb peptide–MHC class I complex (SIINFEKL-H-2Kb)

The SIINFEKL–H-2Kb peptide–MHC class I complex is a molecular assembly comprising the immunodominant peptide SIINFEKL (residues 257–264 of chicken ovalbumin) bound to the mouse H-2Kb MHC class I molecule (Fremont et al., 1992, Science). It is a fundamental tool in immunology for studying antigen presentation and CD8+ T-cell activation, particularly through the use of the OT-I transgenic mouse model which expresses a TCR specific for this complex (Hogquist et al., 1994, Cell). The complex is a target for TCR-like monoclonal antibodies, such as 25-D1.16, which are used to visualize and quantify specific antigen presentation on the cell surface (Porgador et al., 1997, Immunity). In preclinical research, it serves as a model target for developing CAR-T cells and vaccines aimed at inducing specific cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses (Yosef et al., 2021, Front. Immunol.). While it is a mouse-specific system, it provides essential insights into the development of peptide-MHC-targeted therapies for human cancers and infectious diseases. The complex is also used to study the kinetics of peptide binding and the stability of MHC molecules (Janeway's Immunobiology, 9th Ed).

Other names

Ovalbumin (257-264) peptide-H-2Kb complexH-2Kb/SIINFEKLOVA-pMHCSIINFEKL-MHC class I complexH2-Kb-SIINFEKL

Specific recognition by T-cell receptors (TCRs) or TCR-like antibodies leads to the activation of cytotoxic T lymphocytes and subsequent lysis of the antigen-presenting cell.