Mechanistic Insights into the Inhibition of a Common CTLA-4 Gene Mutation in the Cytoplasmic Domain

Abstract

Cytotoxic T-lymphocyte antigen 4 (CTLA-4) is a pivotal immune checkpoint receptor, playing a crucial role in modulating T-cell activation. In this study, we delved into the underlying mechanism by which a common mutation, G199R, in the cytoplasmic domain of CTLA-4 impacts its inhibitory function. Utilizing nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy and biochemical techniques, we mapped the conformational changes induced by this mutation and investigated its role in CTLA-4 activity. Our findings reveal that this mutation leads to a distinct conformational alteration, enhancing protein–membrane interactions. Moreover, functional assays demonstrated an improved capacity of the G199R mutant to downregulate T-cell activation, underscoring its potential role in immune-related disorders. These results not only enhance our understanding of CTLA-4 regulatory mechanisms but also provide insights for targeted therapeutic strategies addressing immune dysregulation linked to CTLA-4 mutations.