T-cell receptor specific for HIVconsv immunogen (HIVconsv-specific TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) specific for the HIVconsv immunogen is a specialized protein complex found on the surface of CD8+ and CD4+ T cells that recognizes highly conserved regions of the HIV-1 virus (Hanke, T., 2019, NPJ Vaccines). The HIVconsv immunogen is a synthetic vaccine candidate designed to include 14 of the most conserved segments of the HIV-1 proteome, aiming to elicit a broad and robust T-cell response against multiple viral clades (Borthwick et al., 2014, Molecular Therapy). When these TCRs bind to HIVconsv-derived peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) molecules, they trigger an immune response intended to eliminate HIV-infected cells (Mothe et al., 2015, Journal of Virology). This target is central to 'kick-and-kill' strategies and therapeutic vaccine development, as it focuses the immune system on viral vulnerabilities that are less likely to mutate. Drugs interacting with this target include viral vector vaccines like ChAdOx1.HIVconsv and MVA.HIVconsv, which prime and boost the frequency of these specific T cells. Understanding the TCR repertoire and binding affinity is crucial for optimizing vaccine efficacy and ensuring long-term control of the viral reservoir (Ondondo et al., 2016, Frontiers in Immunology).

Other names

HIVconsv TCRConserved HIV-1 immunogen-specific T-cell receptorHIV-1 conserved region-specific TCRHIVconsv-specific T-cell receptor

The T-cell receptor (TCR) recognizes specific conserved HIV-1 peptides presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I or II molecules. This binding event triggers the CD3 signaling complex, leading to T-cell activation, proliferation, and the release of effector molecules such as interferon-gamma (IFN-g) and granzymes to eliminate infected cells (Hanke, T., 2019, NPJ Vaccines).