Cd40 ligand

CD40 Ligand

CD40 Ligand (pronounced as C-D forty ligand), also known as CD154 or TRAP is a protein that is primarily expressed on activated T cells and is a member of the TNF superfamily of molecules. It binds to CD40 on antigen-presenting cells (APC), which leads to many effects depending on the target cell type.

Etymology

The term CD40 Ligand is derived from the name of its receptor, CD40, a member of the TNF receptor family. The "CD" in CD40 stands for "Cluster of Differentiation," which is a protocol used for the identification and investigation of cell surface molecules present on leukocytes. "Ligand" refers to a substance that forms a complex with a biomolecule to serve a biological purpose.

Function

CD40 Ligand plays a central role in the regulation of immune response. It is essential for the activation of B cells and dendritic cells. The interaction between CD40 Ligand and CD40 provides the necessary signals for T cell activation, B cell proliferation, antibody production, and cytokine production. Mutations in this gene result in Hyper IgM syndrome, a condition characterized by an inability to switch to production of IgG or IgA antibodies.

Related Terms

• T cells
• B cells
• Dendritic cells
• TNF superfamily
• CD40
• Hyper IgM syndrome
• IgG
• IgA
• Cytokine
• Antigen-presenting cells
• Leukocytes
• TNF receptor
• Immune response

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