The Immunodominant Influenza A Virus M1_58–66Cytotoxic T Lymphocyte Epitope Exhibits Degenerate Class I Major Histocompatibility Complex Restriction in Humans

Abstract

The presentation of influenza A virus peptides to elicit immunity is thought to be narrowly restricted, with a single peptide presented by a specific HLA molecule. In this study, we show that the same influenza A virus peptide can be more broadly presented by both HLA-A and HLA-C molecules. This discovery may help to explain the differences in immunity to influenza A virus between individuals and populations and may also aid in the design of vaccines.