T-cell receptor recognizing MHC-presented Epstein-Barr virus antigen (TCR (EBV-specific), or EBV-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor recognizing MHC-presented Epstein-Barr virus antigen (EBV-specific TCR) refers to alpha-beta heterodimeric receptors on the surface of T cells that specifically bind to peptide antigens derived from the Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) when presented by major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecules on infected or malignant cells[2][3][5]. CD8+ T-cell receptors typically recognize EBV peptides in the context of MHC class I, mediating cytotoxic killing of infected cells, while CD4+ TCRs recognize peptides with MHC class II, helping coordinate immune responses[2]. The EBV-specific TCR repertoire is diverse and shaped by antigen-driven selection, with certain clonotypes persisting as memory T cells after infection[3][4]. These receptors are crucial for immune surveillance against EBV infection and are implicated in diseases such as infectious mononucleosis, EBV-driven cancers, and certain autoimmune processes. While no drugs directly modulate EBV-specific TCRs, adoptive T-cell therapies and TCR-engineered cell therapies are under exploration, relying on their targeted recognition and cytotoxicity against EBV-infected or tumor cells[2][5].

Other names

EBV-specific T-cell receptorEpstein-Barr virus antigen-recognizing T-cell receptorMHC-restricted EBV TCR

Recognition of peptide-MHC complexes on infected or malignant cells, leading to T-cell activation and cytotoxicity[2][5]. Engineered TCR therapies: transfer of EBV-specific TCR genes into patient T cells to redirect them against EBV-infected cells (experimental).