T-cell receptor recognizing WT1 peptide–major histocompatibility complex (TCR recognizing WT1 peptide–MHC)

The **T-cell receptor recognizing WT1 peptide–major histocompatibility complex (TCR recognizing WT1 peptide–MHC)** is a cell-surface receptor on T lymphocytes that specifically binds a peptide fragment from the Wilms Tumor 1 (WT1) protein presented by a major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule, typically HLA-A*02:01, on the surface of tumor cells[1][6][8]. WT1 is overexpressed in a range of hematologic malignancies (such as acute myeloid leukemia) and some solid tumors, making it a prominent tumor-associated antigen for immune targeting[2][8]. TCR engagement with the WT1 peptide–MHC complex triggers T cell activation, leading to immune-mediated destruction of WT1-expressing tumor cells[3][7]. This biology underpins engineered TCR-based cell therapies, peptide vaccines, and TCR-mimic antibody drugs in cancer immunotherapy. Monitoring WT1 expression and HLA genotype are relevant for patient selection and response assessment for such therapies. Safety challenges include potential for off-target effects against healthy tissues presenting similar peptide–MHC complexes and mechanisms of tumor immune escape.

Other names

TCR specific for WT1 peptide–MHC complexWT1-specific T-cell receptorTCR targeting WT1/HLA-A*02:01 complexWT1 peptide–MHC-targeted TCR

Recognition of WT1-derived peptide presented by MHC molecules on tumor cells by the TCR triggers T cell activation and targeted lysis of tumor cells. TCR-mimic antibodies and bispecific antibodies may bind WT1 peptide–MHC, enabling immune recruitment to the tumor site.