Distortion of the major histocompatibility complex class i binding groove to accommodate an insulin-derived 10-mer peptide

Abstract

Background: CD8+ T-cells play a central role in type 1 diabetes (T1D) by recognizing insulin peptides displayed by MHC. Results: A novel flexible MHC binding mode accommodates extra C-terminal peptide residues. Conclusion: Unusual peptide-MHC binding might explain weak TCR affinity of a natural T1D epitope. Significance: MHC peptide binding can be highly flexible around the F-binding pocket.