Wilms' tumor protein 1 peptide-HLA-A*24:02 complex (or modified Wilms' tumor 1 peptide-HLA-A*24:02 complex) (mWT1-HLA-A*24:02)

The mWT1-HLA-A*24:02 complex represents a binding interaction between a modified 9-residue peptide epitope derived from Wilms' tumor protein 1 (mWT1) and the HLA-A*24:02 major histocompatibility complex class I molecule, which is predominantly found in Asian populations. This complex serves as a target for cancer immunotherapy by presenting the tumor-associated antigen to cytotoxic CD8+ T cells, enabling immune recognition and destruction of WT1-expressing cancer cells. The modified peptide variant shows substantially improved binding affinity and immunogenicity compared to the native WT1 peptide, making it suitable for development as a peptide-based cancer vaccine. The binding mechanism involves initial formation of an encounter complex through electrostatic interactions between the peptide's N-terminal positive charge and negatively charged residues on HLA-A*24, followed by conformational opening of the binding site to accommodate full peptide insertion. This complex is particularly relevant for treating cancers expressing WT1, including acute myeloid leukemia and other malignancies, in patients carrying the HLA-A*24:02 allele.

Other names

WT1-HLA-A*24 complexWT1 antigen-HLA-A*24:02 complexWilms tumor antigen 1-HLA-A*24:02

The complex serves as a target for recognition by cytotoxic T lymphocytes (CTLs) in cancer immunotherapy. The modified mWT1 peptide exhibits significantly stronger affinity for HLA-A*24:02 and higher CTL activity compared to the natural WT1 peptide.