T-cell receptor recognizing CRM197-derived peptides in MHC (CRM197-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) recognizing CRM197-derived peptides in the context of Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules is a specialized immune receptor found on the surface of T lymphocytes. CRM197 is a non-toxic, genetically engineered mutant of the diphtheria toxin (containing a Gly52Glu mutation) that serves as a highly immunogenic carrier protein in numerous conjugate vaccines, such as those for Streptococcus pneumoniae and Neisseria meningitidis. These TCRs, predominantly expressed on CD4+ T lymphocytes, recognize specific peptide fragments of CRM197 presented by MHC Class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells. This recognition event triggers T-cell activation, providing the necessary helper signals, such as cytokine secretion and CD40L expression, for B-cell maturation and high-affinity antibody production. Beyond its role in traditional vaccinology, this TCR-peptide-MHC interaction is being explored in cancer immunotherapy to leverage pre-existing anti-CRM197 immunity to enhance anti-tumor responses through the recruitment of memory T cells to the tumor microenvironment. The interaction between these TCRs and their cognate MHC-peptide complexes is the fundamental mechanism by which CRM197-based vaccines confer long-term immunity and provide universal T-cell help.

Other names

CRM197-specific T-cell receptorDiphtheria toxoid-specific T-cell receptorTCR recognizing CRM197CRM197-reactive T-cell receptor

Activation of CRM197-specific T cells through the recognition of CRM197-derived peptides presented on MHC molecules, leading to the provision of T-cell help for B-cell antibody production and the establishment of immunological memory.