Tumor neoantigen peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (NeoAg-MHC) (NeoAg-MHC)

Tumor neoantigen peptide–Major Histocompatibility Complex (MHC) complexes are unique molecular signatures presented on the surface of malignant cells, resulting from somatic mutations that create novel, non-self peptides (Nature Reviews Cancer, 2019). These peptides are processed and presented by MHC molecules, allowing the immune system to distinguish cancer cells from healthy tissue (NIH NCI). Because neoantigens are absent from the normal proteome, they represent highly specific targets for immunotherapy, minimizing the risk of central tolerance and autoimmunity (Science, 2017). Therapeutic strategies targeting these complexes include personalized vaccines, TCR-engineered T-cells, and antibody-like molecules that recognize specific peptide-HLA combinations (Frontiers in Immunology, 2020). The efficacy of these treatments often depends on the patient's HLA genotype and the stability of the peptide-MHC interaction (Journal of Hematology & Oncology, 2021). These targets are central to the development of precision immuno-oncology, where treatments are tailored to the unique genetic landscape of an individual's tumor.

Other names

Neoepitope-MHC complexTumor-specific antigen-MHC complexpHMCNeoantigen-HLA complexTSA-MHC complex

Induction of neoantigen-specific T-cell responses via active immunization (vaccines); direct targeting of peptide-MHC complexes by engineered T-cell receptors (TCR-T) or bispecific antibodies to induce tumor cell lysis.