CD Antigens
Product List
CD40 Human
CD40 Human Recombinant
CD40 Mouse
CD40 Mouse Recombinant
Introduction
CD40, also known as Cluster of Differentiation 40, is a type I transmembrane protein that belongs to the TNF receptor superfamily . It is primarily found on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs) such as B cells, dendritic cells, and macrophages . CD40 plays a crucial role in the activation and regulation of immune responses .
Key Biological Properties: CD40 is essential for various immune and inflammatory responses . It is involved in T cell-dependent immunoglobulin class switching, memory B cell development, and germinal center formation .
Expression Patterns: CD40 is expressed on a variety of cells, including B cells, dendritic cells, macrophages, monocytes, platelets, endothelial cells, and several types of tumor cells .
Tissue Distribution: CD40 is widely distributed across different tissues, particularly in immune-related organs such as the spleen, lymph nodes, and thymus .
Primary Biological Functions: CD40 is pivotal in mediating immune responses. It facilitates the activation of APCs, leading to the production of cytokines and the enhancement of antigen presentation .
Role in Immune Responses: CD40-CD40L interaction is crucial for the activation of T cells and B cells, promoting antibody production and the formation of memory cells .
Pathogen Recognition: CD40 plays a role in recognizing and responding to pathogens by activating APCs and initiating adaptive immune responses .
Mechanisms with Other Molecules and Cells: CD40 interacts with its ligand, CD40L (CD154), which is primarily expressed on activated T cells . This interaction triggers a cascade of signaling events that lead to the activation of various immune cells .
Binding Partners: CD40 binds to CD40L, initiating signaling pathways that involve TRAF proteins and other adaptor molecules .
Downstream Signaling Cascades: The binding of CD40 to CD40L activates several downstream signaling pathways, including the NF-κB, MAPK, and PI3K pathways . These pathways are involved in the regulation of immune responses and inflammation .
Regulatory Mechanisms: The expression and activity of CD40 are tightly regulated at both the transcriptional and post-translational levels . Transcription factors such as NF-κB and AP-1 play a role in the transcriptional regulation of CD40 .
Transcriptional Regulation: CD40 expression is regulated by various transcription factors that bind to its promoter region .
Post-Translational Modifications: CD40 undergoes post-translational modifications such as phosphorylation, which can modulate its activity and signaling capabilities .
Biomedical Research: CD40 is extensively studied in the context of immune responses, autoimmune diseases, and cancer . It serves as a target for immunotherapy and vaccine development .
Diagnostic Tools: CD40 and its ligand are used as biomarkers for various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancers .
Therapeutic Strategies: Targeting the CD40-CD40L interaction has therapeutic potential in treating autoimmune diseases, cancers, and chronic inflammatory conditions .
Development: CD40 is involved in the development and maturation of the immune system . It plays a role in the formation of germinal centers and the generation of memory B cells .
Aging: The expression and function of CD40 may change with age, potentially impacting immune responses in older individuals .
Disease: Dysregulation of CD40 signaling is associated with various diseases, including autoimmune disorders, cancers, and chronic inflammatory conditions .
