T-cell receptor recognizing Hepatitis A virus-derived peptide–MHC complexes (HAV-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) recognizing Hepatitis A virus (HAV)-derived peptide–MHC complexes is a specialized immune receptor responsible for identifying and coordinating the elimination of HAV-infected cells. These TCRs are primarily expressed on CD8+ cytotoxic T cells and CD4+ helper T cells, where they recognize viral epitopes—typically derived from HAV capsid proteins (VP1-VP4) or non-structural proteins like the 3D polymerase—presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules on the surface of hepatocytes or professional antigen-presenting cells. Upon binding to its cognate peptide-MHC ligand, the TCR initiates a signaling cascade that triggers T-cell proliferation, the release of proinflammatory cytokines such as interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and tumor necrosis factor (TNF), and the direct cytolytic destruction of infected cells. While this T-cell response is essential for viral clearance, its over-activation, along with the recruitment of non-specific bystander T cells, is a primary driver of the liver inflammation and parenchymal injury characteristic of acute hepatitis A. Although no drugs currently target this specific TCR directly, its activity is a focal point for vaccine development and is modulated by checkpoint inhibitors like anti-PD-1 and anti-LAG3 in experimental models to enhance antiviral immunity.

Other names

Hepatitis A virus-specific T-cell receptorHAV-specific TCRT-cell receptor recognizing HAV peptidesHAV-specific T-cell antigen receptor

Recognition of viral peptides presented by MHC molecules leading to T-cell mediated killing of infected hepatocytes and cytokine-mediated viral control.