Telomerase reverse transcriptase–derived epitope presented by HLA-A*0201 (hTERT (human telomerase reverse transcriptase) sometimes used, especially when referring to derived epitopes)

The telomerase reverse transcriptase–derived epitope presented by HLA-A*0201 is a short peptide sequence, typically 9–10 amino acids, derived from the catalytic subunit of human telomerase (hTERT). This peptide is presented on the surface of cancer cells via HLA-A*0201, a common MHC class I molecule, and can trigger cytotoxic T cell responses against tumor cells. hTERT is expressed in over 85% of human tumors but rarely in normal tissues, making its epitopes appealing targets for cancer immune therapies, most notably peptide-based vaccines. Several hTERT-derived epitopes have been investigated, but not all are efficiently processed and naturally presented; for example, the commonly studied hTERT 540–548 peptide (ILAKFLHWL) is not always detected on cell surfaces in tumor lines, highlighting the need for careful epitope selection. These epitopes aim to stimulate specific immunity and facilitate targeted destruction of tumor cells. The ongoing clinical development is focused on maximizing immunogenicity and minimizing off-target effects.

Other names

hTERT-derived HLA-A*0201 restricted epitopeHLA-A*0201-restricted hTERT peptideTelomerase peptide antigenTERT peptide (when referring to telomerase reverse transcriptase–derived epitopes)Tumor-associated hTERT epitope

Induction of anti-tumor cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) responses via presentation of hTERT epitopes by HLA-A*0201 on tumor cells Enhancement of immune system recognition of cancer cells