UTA2-1-specific T-cell receptor (recognizing HLA-A*02:01–UTA2-1 peptide) (UTA2-1 TCR)

The UTA2-1-specific T-cell receptor (TCR) is an engineered or naturally occurring immune receptor designed to recognize the minor histocompatibility antigen (mHag) UTA2-1. This antigen is a polymorphic peptide with the sequence QLLNSVLTL, derived from the hematopoietic-specific gene C12orf35 (also known as ADIR), and is presented on the cell surface by the HLA-A*02:01 major histocompatibility complex (MHC) molecule. Because UTA2-1 expression is restricted to the hematopoietic system, TCRs targeting this complex are highly valuable for treating hematological malignancies, such as multiple myeloma and leukemia, while minimizing the risk of graft-versus-host disease (GvHD). In therapeutic applications, T cells are modified to express this specific TCR, allowing them to selectively identify and lyse malignant hematopoietic cells that present the UTA2-1 peptide. This approach leverages the graft-versus-tumor (GvT) effect, particularly in the context of allogeneic stem cell transplantation where donor-derived T cells can be directed against recipient-specific antigens. Clinical strategies involving this TCR often include the use of dendritic cell vaccines pulsed with the UTA2-1 peptide to expand specific T-cell populations in vivo.

Other names

UTA2-1-specific T-cell receptorQLLNSVLTL-specific TCRC12orf35-restricted T-cell receptorMinor histocompatibility antigen UTA2-1-specific TCR

Antigen-specific T-cell mediated cytotoxicity via recognition of HLA-A*02:01-restricted UTA2-1 peptide