Somatic genetics of CDR3 control TCR V-domain rotational probability effecting germline CDR2 scanning of polymorphic MHC
AbstractThe mechanism which adapts the T-cell antigen receptor (TCR) within a given major histocompatibility complex (MHC; HLA, in humans) genotype is essential for protection against pathogens. Historically attributed to relative affinity, genetically vast TCRs are surprisingly focused towards a micromolar affinity for their respective peptide (p) plus MHC (pMHC) ligands. Thus, the somatic diversity of the TCR with respect to MHC restriction, and (ultimately) to pathogens, remains enigmatic. Here, we derive a triple integral equation (from fixed geometry) for any given V-domain in TCR bound to pMHC. We examine solved complexes involving HLA-DR and HLA-DQ, where genetic linkage to the TCR is most profound. Certain V-beta domains displayed rare geometry within this panel—specifying a very low (highly-restricted) rotational probability/volumetric density (dV). Remarkably, hydrogen (H)-bond charge-relays distinguished these structures from the others; suggesting that CDR3 binding chemistry dictates CDR2 contacts on the respective MHC-II alpha-helix.