CD8A and neoplasm: T-cell receptors (TCRs) recognize cognate peptides presented by major histocompatibility complexes (pMHCs), playing a central role in adaptive immunity by defending against pathogens and tumor cells.1–3 This recognition, aided by coreceptors such as CD8, must be highly specific to ensure effective immune surveillance and prevent autoimmunity.4–8 However, pathogens and tumor cells can often evade the immune surveillance through mutations in the antigens that weaken TCR–pMHC binding.9–11 To counteract this evasion, strategies have been developed to enhance TCR binding affinity.