T-cell receptor on house dust mite-specific CD4+ T cell (TCR-HDM-CD4) (TCR-HDM-CD4)

T-cell receptors (TCRs) on house dust mite (HDM)-specific CD4+ T cells are specialized immune receptors that recognize HDM allergen peptides, such as those from Der p 1 or Der p 2, when presented by HLA class II molecules (Wambre et al., 2011, Science Translational Medicine). This recognition is a pivotal event in the pathogenesis of HDM-induced allergic diseases, including asthma and allergic rhinitis (Jutel et al., 2015, Allergy). In sensitized individuals, the interaction between the TCR and the HDM peptide-HLA complex triggers a Th2-biased immune response characterized by the production of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which drive IgE synthesis and eosinophilic inflammation (Calderon et al., 2012, JACI). Therapeutic interventions like allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) target this interaction to induce immune tolerance (Durham & Shamji, 2023, Nature Reviews Immunology). AIT works by modulating TCR signaling to promote the development of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and shifting the immune profile away from Th2 dominance, thereby providing long-term relief from allergic symptoms (Shamji & Durham, 2017, JACI). Monitoring of these TCR-expressing cells using HLA tetramers has become a valuable tool in clinical research to assess treatment efficacy and the induction of tolerance (Wambre et al., 2011).

Other names

HDM-specific TCRHouse dust mite-specific T-cell receptorDer p-specific T-cell receptorDer f-specific T-cell receptorHDM-peptide-HLA-TCR complex

Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) induces immunological tolerance by repeatedly exposing the TCRs on HDM-specific CD4+ T cells to controlled doses of allergen. This process leads to T-cell anergy, deletion, or a shift from a pro-allergic Th2 response to a regulatory (Treg) or Th1-type response, resulting in the production of blocking IgG4 antibodies and reduced allergic inflammation (Durham & Shamji, 2023).