Computational Immunogenetic Analysis of Botulinum Toxin A Immunogenicity and HLA Gene Haplotypes: New Insights.

ABSTRACT: Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is widely used in both therapeutic and aesthetic settings; however, the formation of neutralizing antibodies (NAbs) remains a critical concern, leading to treatment failure. Immunogenic responses are known to vary between individuals due to HLA polymorphisms. Although some claim that neurotoxin-associated proteins (NAPs) shield BoNT-A from immune detection or are themselves immunogenic, there is limited molecular evidence supporting either view. This study applies computational immunogenetics to explore BoNT-A immunogenicity, focusing on HLA binding and the influence of accessory proteins. Epitope mapping, molecular docking, and HLA binding predictions were used to evaluate interactions between BoNT-A epitopes and selected class II HLA alleles (HLA-DQA1*01:02, HL

SUBMITTER: Rahman E 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12031366 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Apr

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature