T cell receptor recognizing Phleum pratense peptides presented on MHC (TCR-Phl p-MHC)

T cell receptors (TCRs) recognizing Phleum pratense (Timothy grass) peptides presented on Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules are the primary drivers of the adaptive immune response in grass pollen allergy [1.3.1, 1.3.3]. These TCRs, typically found on CD4+ T cells, recognize specific epitopes from major allergens like Phl p 1 and Phl p 5 when they are processed and presented by MHC class II molecules on the surface of antigen-presenting cells [1.3.2, 1.3.4]. In allergic individuals, this interaction predominantly activates T helper 2 (Th2) cells, which secrete cytokines such as IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, promoting IgE synthesis and eosinophilic inflammation [1.3.1, 1.3.5]. Therapeutic interventions like allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) utilize standardized extracts or peptides to modulate these TCR-mediated responses [1.4.1, 1.4.3]. The goal of such therapy is to induce immune tolerance by shifting the T cell profile from a pro-allergic Th2 state toward a regulatory (Treg) or Th1 state, thereby reducing clinical symptoms upon subsequent allergen exposure [1.4.2].

Other names

Timothy grass allergen-specific T cell receptorPhl p-specific T cell receptorGrass pollen-specific T cell receptorPhleum pratense-specific TCR

Induction of immune tolerance through Th2-to-Th1/Treg immune deviation, suppression of allergen-specific Th2 cells, and stimulation of IgG4 blocking antibodies [1.3.1, 1.4.2].