T-cell receptor specific for influenza virus peptides (TCR) (TCR)

The T-cell receptor (TCR) specific for influenza-derived peptides is a heterodimeric surface protein found on CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocytes that mediates the recognition of viral antigens (PubMed: 28250443). It specifically binds to influenza-derived peptides, such as the matrix protein 1 (M1) residues 58-66, when they are presented by Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) class I molecules, most commonly HLA-A*02:01 (PubMed: 19748441). This interaction triggers a signaling cascade through the CD3 complex, leading to T-cell activation, the release of cytotoxic granules like granzymes and perforin, and the production of cytokines such as IFN-gamma (UniProt: P01850). In clinical development, these receptors are utilized in TCR-engineered T-cell (TCR-T) therapies, where a patient's T cells are modified to express a high-affinity TCR specific for influenza to treat severe infections or provide broad-spectrum immunity (PubMed: 30104341). The therapeutic use of these receptors aims to provide a rapid and potent cellular immune response, particularly in immunocompromised individuals or during pandemic outbreaks (PubMed: 25108489). However, safety concerns include potential cross-reactivity with self-peptides, which could lead to autoimmunity, and the requirement for precise HLA matching between the TCR and the patient (PubMed: 21149605).

Other names

Influenza-specific T-cell receptorFlu-TCRCD8+ T-cell receptorMHC class I-restricted influenza-specific TCRHLA-A*02:01-restricted M1-specific TCR

Recognition of specific influenza-derived peptides presented by MHC class I molecules on the surface of infected cells, triggering T-cell activation and targeted lysis.