Mechanistic diversity in MHC class I antigen recognition

Biochem J. 2021 Dec 22;478(24):4187-4202. doi: 10.1042/BCJ20200910.

Abstract

Throughout its evolution, the human immune system has developed a plethora of strategies to diversify the antigenic peptide sequences that can be targeted by the CD8+ T cell response against pathogens and aberrations of self. Here we provide a general overview of the mechanisms that lead to the diversity of antigens presented by MHC class I complexes and their recognition by CD8+ T cells, together with a more detailed analysis of recent progress in two important areas that are highly controversial: the prevalence and immunological relevance of unconventional antigen peptides; and cross-recognition of antigenic peptides by the T cell receptors of CD8+ T cells.

Keywords: MHC class I; T cells; TCR; antigens; spliced peptides.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens* / chemistry
  • Antigens* / immunology
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes* / chemistry
  • CD8-Positive T-Lymphocytes* / immunology
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I* / chemistry
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I* / immunology
  • Humans
  • Models, Immunological*
  • Peptides* / chemistry
  • Peptides* / immunology
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell* / chemistry
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell* / immunology

Substances

  • Antigens
  • Histocompatibility Antigens Class I
  • Peptides
  • Receptors, Antigen, T-Cell