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neoantigen
Pronunciation: NEE-oh-an-ti-jen
A novel protein fragment created by tumor-specific mutations that can be recognized by the immune system.
Full Definition
A tumor-specific antigenic peptide that arises from somatic mutations in cancer cells, creating protein sequences not present in normal tissues. Neoantigens are presented on MHC molecules and can be recognized as foreign by T cells, potentially triggering anti-tumor immune responses. The neoantigen burden correlates with immunotherapy response rates and is a key determinant of tumor immunogenicity. High neoantigen load often predicts benefit from checkpoint inhibitor therapy.
Usage
Usage note: Often hyphenated in some style guides; verify institutional preference for neoantigen vs neo-antigen.
In Context
- "Computational analysis predicted 23 high-affinity neoantigens from the identified missense mutations." — Immunogenomics study
- "The patient's tumor showed low neoantigen burden, correlating with lack of response to PD-1 blockade." — Immunotherapy resistance analysis
Also known as
tumor neoantigen
mutation-derived antigen
Contrasted with
self-antigen
tumor-associated antigen
Don't confuse with
tumor-associated antigen
cancer antigen