Distinct mutational processes shape selection of MHC class I and class II mutations across primary and metastatic tumors

Abstract

Disruption of antigen presentation via loss of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) expression is a strategy whereby cancer cells escape immune surveillance and develop resistance to immunotherapy. Here, we develop the personalized genomics algorithm Hapster and accurately call somatic mutations within the MHC genes of 10,001 primary and 2,199 metastatic tumors, creating a catalog of 1,663 non-synonymous mutations that provide key insights into MHC mutagenesis. We find that MHC class I genes are among the most frequently mutated genes in both primary and metastatic tumors, while MHC class II mutations are more restricted. Recurrent deleterious mutations are found within haplotype- and cancer-type-specific hotspots associated with distinct mutational processes. Functional classification of MHC residues reveals significant positive selection for mutations disruptive to the B2M, peptide, and Tcell binding interfaces, as well as to MHC chaperones.