View source for 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]]

[[Category:Immunology]]
[[Category:Proteins]]
[[Category:Cell biology]]

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