T-cell receptor recognizing Cytomegalovirus pp65 peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (CMV-pp65-TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) recognizing CMV pp65 peptide–MHC complexes is a specialized antigen receptor that plays a central role in the adaptive immune response against Human Cytomegalovirus (CMV). CMV is a common beta-herpesvirus that establishes lifelong latency and can cause severe, life-threatening disease in immunocompromised individuals, such as hematopoietic stem cell and solid organ transplant recipients. The pp65 protein (UL83) is the primary immunodominant antigen of CMV, with its peptides being presented by both MHC class I and class II molecules to activate CD8+ and CD4+ T cells. In therapeutic development, these specific TCRs are utilized to create TCR-engineered T cells (TCR-T) or TCR-like antibodies designed to identify and eliminate CMV-infected cells. These immunotherapies offer a promising alternative to conventional antiviral drugs, which are often associated with significant toxicities like myelosuppression and nephrotoxicity. By restoring or augmenting CMV-specific cellular immunity, these treatments aim to achieve effective viral control and improve survival in patients with refractory CMV infections.

Other names

CMV-specific T-cell receptorpp65-specific T-cell receptorCMV-pp65-TCRHuman cytomegalovirus pp65-specific TCRT-cell receptor recognizing CMV pp65 peptide–MHC class I/II complexes

TCR-engineered T cells or TCR-like antibodies recognize the CMV pp65 peptide presented by MHC molecules on the surface of infected cells, triggering T-cell activation and the release of cytotoxic granules (perforin and granzymes) to induce apoptosis in the target cell.