T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire recognizing SARS-CoV-2-derived epitopes (SARS-CoV-2 TCR repertoire)

The T cell receptor (TCR) repertoire recognizing SARS-CoV-2-derived epitopes is the diverse set of antigen-specific receptors found on T lymphocytes that mediate the cellular immune response against the SARS-CoV-2 virus. These TCRs function by recognizing specific viral peptide fragments, known as epitopes, which are presented on the surface of infected cells by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules [1, 3]. The repertoire includes both CD8+ T cells, which provide direct cytotoxic activity against infected cells, and CD4+ T cells, which assist in antibody production and immune regulation [2]. Research has identified specific public TCR sequences that are common across many individuals, often targeting highly conserved regions of the viral Spike, Nucleocapsid, and Membrane proteins [1, 4]. This repertoire is a significant focus for therapeutic development, particularly in the creation of TCR-engineered T cell (TCR-T) therapies designed to treat severe COVID-19 or provide protection to immunocompromised individuals [5]. Furthermore, the analysis of this repertoire serves as a critical biomarker for evaluating the effectiveness of vaccines and the durability of long-term immunological memory [2, 6].

Other names

SARS-CoV-2 specific T-cell receptorsCOVID-19 TCR repertoireSARS-CoV-2 reactive T-cell receptorsAnti-SARS-CoV-2 TCRs

Recognition of SARS-CoV-2 peptide-HLA complexes by the TCR αβ heterodimer, triggering the CD3 signaling cascade and subsequent T cell activation, proliferation, and effector function (cytotoxicity or cytokine release) [1, 2].