Short peptide sequence identity between human viruses and HLA-B27-binding human 'self' peptides

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Virology
• Genetics

Background:

• Ankylosing spondylitis (AS) pathogenesis is hypothesized to involve molecular mimicry and arthritogenic peptides.
• The human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27 gene is strongly associated with AS, suggesting its critical role.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate if human viruses possess peptide sequences that mimic HLA-B27-binding self-peptides.
• To explore the potential role of viral mimicry in the development of HLA-B27-positive ankylosing spondylitis.

Main Methods:

• Bioinformatic analysis using BLASTP.
• Comparison of human virus proteomes with HLA-B27-binding self-peptides, including arthritogenic sequences.

Main Results:

• Identification of highly similar peptide sequences between certain chronic infection-causing viruses and HLA-B27-binding peptides.
• Specific similarity noted in peptides derived from cartilage and bone proteins.

Conclusions:

• Shared short amino acid sequences between human viruses and HLA-B27 peptides may contribute to AS pathogenesis.
• Molecular mimicry by viral peptides is a plausible mechanism in HLA-B27-associated ankylosing spondylitis.