CD40L (mouse) ELISA

CD40 (Ly62) and CD40 Ligand (CD40L): Functions and Clinical Relevance

Introduction: CD40, also known as Ly62 in murine models, is a key member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor superfamily. It is a cell surface antigen with significant roles in immune system activation and is a useful marker for assessing platelet activation in cardiovascular conditions. CD40 interacts with its ligand, CD40L, to mediate crucial immunological processes.

Functions of CD40 and CD40L:

1. Immune Activation:
• T-cell Dependent B Cell Responses: CD40/CD40L interactions are vital for the activation and function of B cells. CD40L, found on activated CD4+ T cells, basophils, and mast cells, binds to CD40 on B cells. This interaction triggers B-cell proliferation, enhances cell adhesion, and supports B-cell differentiation into antibody-producing cells.
2. Platelet Activation:
• Biochemical Marker: CD40 is used as a marker to identify activated platelets in cardiovascular diseases. Elevated CD40 levels on platelets can be indicative of conditions such as:
• Angina Pectoris
• Myocardial Infarction
• Stroke
3. Soluble CD40L:
• Circulatory Form: Soluble CD40L is present in the blood and has been associated with various physiological and pathological processes. Its presence and levels can be relevant in:
• Inflammatory Diseases: Soluble CD40L levels may be elevated in chronic inflammatory conditions.
• Cardiovascular Diseases: It is involved in platelet activation and vascular inflammation.
• Autoimmune Disorders: High levels can be observed in diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis.

Clinical Relevance:

1. Cardiovascular Diseases:
• Diagnostic Marker: Measurement of CD40 and soluble CD40L can aid in diagnosing and monitoring cardiovascular diseases. They serve as indicators of platelet activation and inflammation.
2. Immune System Monitoring:
• B-cell Function: The CD40/CD40L interaction is crucial for assessing the activation and functionality of B cells, particularly in autoimmune conditions and during immune responses to infections.
3. Research and Therapeutics:
• Target for Therapy: Given its central role in immune responses and inflammation, CD40/CD40L interactions are potential targets for therapeutic interventions in various diseases, including autoimmune disorders and cancers.

Conclusion: CD40 (Ly62) and its ligand CD40L play critical roles in immune activation and platelet function. Their interactions are essential for B-cell responses and are relevant markers in cardiovascular diseases. Understanding their roles can provide insights into disease mechanisms and facilitate the development of targeted therapies.

This ELISA Kit from Tecan IBL International is for research use only.

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