CEF Control Peptides

Definition
The CEF control peptides are 8-12 amino acids in length, with sequences derived from the human Cytomegalovirus, Epstein-Barr Virus and Influenza Virus1 These peptides are used in the stimulation of IFNg release from CD8+ T cells in individuals with defined HLA types1. They are useful as positive control peptides in several cytokine assays such as Elispot.

Discovery
CEF peptides were first selected in 2002 based on their ability to recognize CD8+ T cells1.

Classification
They are derived from epitopes of viruses and hence have antigenic properties1.

Structural Characteristics
CEF peptides are 8-11 amino acids long with sequences: GILGFVFTL (Influenza A, HLA-A2), FMYSDFHFI (Influenza A, HLA-A2), CLGGLLTMV (EBV, HLA-A2), GLCTLVAML (EBV, HLA-A2), NLVPMVATV (HCMV, HLA-A2).

Mode of action
CEF peptides are effective epitopes for CD8+ T cells2. They bind to these cells and trigger the production of IFNg.

Functions
CEF control peptides are used as positive control in Elispot assay that is used to investigate specific immune responses in various diseases including infections, cancer, allergies and autoimmune diseases2. In this case the CEF peptides ensure that the cells under study are active and viable2. Elispot is also useful in the development of vaccines especially for HIV where CEF peptides are used also as controls2.

References
1.Currier JR, Kuta EG, Turk E, Earhart LB, Loomis-Price L, Janetzki S, Ferrari G, Birx DL, Cox JH (2002). A panel of MHC class I restricted viral peptides for use as a quality control for vaccine trial ELISPOT assays, J Immunol Methods, 260, 157-172.
2.Gazagne A, Claret E, Wijdenes J, Yssel H, Bousquet F, Levy E, Vielh P, Scotte F, Goupil T, Fridman WH, Tartour E (2003). A Fluorospot assay to detect single T lymphocytes simultaneously producing multiple cytokines, J Immunol Methods, 283(1-2), 91-98.