T-cell receptor on Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-specific CD4+ T cells (Der p-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) on Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-specific CD4+ T cells is a membrane-bound heterodimeric protein complex responsible for the recognition of peptides derived from house dust mite (HDM) allergens, such as Der p 1, Der p 2, and Der p 23 (PubMed: 31035137). These receptors recognize allergen fragments presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex class II (MHC-II) molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells. In sensitized individuals, the activation of these TCRs drives a Th2-polarized immune response, leading to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which promote IgE production and eosinophilic inflammation (PubMed: 28259440). This receptor complex is the primary target of allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to desensitize the immune system through controlled, repeated exposure to HDM extracts (PubMed: 29164156). Successful AIT results in a shift from a Th2-dominant response to a regulatory T-cell (Treg) or Th1-dominant profile, effectively inducing long-term clinical tolerance (PubMed: 24636084). Monitoring the repertoire and frequency of these specific TCRs using MHC-II tetramers is a critical tool for evaluating the efficacy of immunotherapeutic interventions in allergic diseases (PubMed: 28259440).

Other names

House dust mite-specific T-cell receptorHDM-specific TCRDer p-specific T-cell receptorDermatophagoides pteronyssinus-reactive T-cell receptor

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) involves the repeated administration of house dust mite allergens to induce peripheral T-cell tolerance. This is achieved through the induction of T-cell anergy, clonal deletion, or the promotion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) that secrete inhibitory cytokines like IL-10 and TGF-beta, thereby suppressing the Th2-mediated allergic response (PubMed: 24636084).