T cell receptor–peptide–major histocompatibility complex interface

The T cell receptor–peptide–major histocompatibility complex interface is the critical molecular complex by which T cells recognize antigens. A TCR on the T cell surface binds to a peptide presented by an MHC molecule on an antigen-presenting or target cell. This interaction is highly specific and initiates signal transduction leading to T cell activation, proliferation, and immune function[1][5][6]. The TCR–pMHC interaction is central to adaptive immunity, determining self/non-self recognition and mediating responses to infection, cancer, and autoantigens. Therapeutically, targeting this interface is foundational in adoptive cell transfer, cancer immunotherapy, peptide vaccines, and autoimmune modulation. The interface is not itself a single molecule but a tri-molecular complex with significant functional and disease relevance.

Other names

TCR–pMHC interfaceT cell receptor–peptide–MHC complexMHC-peptide–TCR recognition site

Modulation of TCR engagement with pMHC Alteration of peptide presentation Inhibition or promotion of signal transduction downstream of the interface Immune checkpoint regulation