T-cell receptor on Phleum pratense-specific CD4+ T cells (Phl p-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) on Phleum pratense-specific CD4+ T cells is the primary molecular interface for the recognition of Timothy grass pollen allergens, such as Phl p 1 and Phl p 5. These receptors recognize specific allergen-derived peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (Janeway's Immunobiology, 2001). In allergic individuals, this recognition triggers a Th2-polarized immune response characterized by the secretion of cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, which promote IgE production and eosinophilic inflammation (Akdis & Akdis, JACI, 2014). This TCR-peptide-MHC complex is a central target for allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT), which seeks to modify the T-cell response to induce long-term clinical tolerance (Larche et al., Nature Reviews Immunology, 2006). Therapeutic interventions, including sublingual and subcutaneous immunotherapies like Grazax or Oralair, work by repeatedly exposing the TCR to the allergen to drive the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and the production of blocking antibodies like IgG4 (Durham & Shamji, Nature Reviews Immunology, 2023). Understanding the repertoire and specificity of these TCRs is essential for developing next-generation peptide-based vaccines and monitoring treatment efficacy (Wurtzen et al., Clinical & Experimental Allergy, 2007).

Other names

Timothy grass allergen-specific T-cell receptorPhl p 1-specific TCRPhl p 5-specific TCRGrass pollen-specific T-cell receptor

Induction of peripheral T-cell tolerance and immune deviation from Th2 to Th1/Treg responses