Survivin-derived peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex (Survivin/HLA-A*02:01)

Survivin (BIRC5) is a member of the inhibitor of apoptosis (IAP) family that is highly expressed in most human cancers but nearly absent in normal adult tissues (Altieri, 2003, Nature Reviews Cancer). The Survivin-derived peptide–HLA-A*02:01 complex consists of a specific survivin-derived epitope, such as the decamer Sur95-104 (ELTLGEFLKL) or the nonamer Sur96-104 (LMLGEFLKL), bound to the Human Leukocyte Antigen (HLA) A*02:01 molecule (Schmitz et al., 2000, Cancer Research). This complex is presented on the surface of tumor cells, serving as a specific molecular signature for the immune system to recognize malignant cells. Therapeutic strategies targeting this complex include peptide vaccines like SurVaxM, T-cell receptor (TCR) engineered T-cells, and TCR-like antibodies (Fenstermaker et al., 2016, Journal of Translational Medicine). By targeting this complex, these therapies aim to induce a cytotoxic T-lymphocyte (CTL) response specifically against cancer cells while minimizing damage to healthy tissue. Clinical trials have explored these approaches in various malignancies, including glioblastoma, melanoma, and hematological cancers, where survivin expression correlates with poor prognosis and treatment resistance (Duffy et al., 2007, Clinical Chemistry).

Other names

BIRC5 peptide-HLA-A*02:01 complexSurvivin95-104/HLA-A*02:01Survivin96-104/HLA-A*02:01pMHC complex (Survivin/HLA-A*02:01)

T-cell receptor-mediated recognition and subsequent lysis of tumor cells presenting the survivin peptide