What is the Origin of Immunogenicity of Peptides?

The term combines "immunogenicity," the ability to induce an immune response, with "peptides," the molecular class of the therapeutic agent. This concept is a core tenet of immunology and pharmacology, particularly relevant since the advent of therapeutic proteins and peptides in the late 20th century. The origin lies in the body's natural defense system recognizing non-self-molecules.

What is the Mechanism of Immunogenicity of Peptides?

The mechanism begins when the immune system, specifically antigen-presenting cells, processes the exogenous peptide and presents its epitopes to T-cells. If the T-cells recognize the peptide as foreign, they activate B-cells to produce antibodies (ADAs). These antibodies can bind to the therapeutic peptide, forming immune complexes that are cleared from the body, reducing the effective drug concentration and potentially leading to a loss of clinical response or adverse immune-mediated reactions.

Immunogenicity of Peptides ∞ Area

Immunogenicity of Peptides

Meaning

Immunogenicity of Peptides refers to the capacity of a peptide therapeutic, a short chain of amino acids, to provoke an immune response in the body, specifically the production of anti-drug antibodies (ADAs). This immune reaction can range from clinically silent to severe hypersensitivity, and critically, it may neutralize the therapeutic effect of the peptide by clearing it from circulation or blocking its receptor binding. Evaluating and minimizing immunogenicity is a paramount consideration in the development and clinical application of peptide-based hormonal and metabolic therapies. It directly impacts the safety and long-term efficacy of the treatment.