Bovine CD40 Ligand (TNFSF5) ELISpot

CD40 Ligand (CD40LG) is a transmembrane protein that is a member of the TNF superfamily. In addition to existing in a membrane bound form, CD40LG can also be released as a soluble molecule (sCD40LG), which has been shown to have biological functions. CD40 interacts with CD40 ligand, which is predominantly expressed on activated CD4+ T-cells. CD40LG is transiently expressed on activated T-cells and plays a crucial role in B-cell function. Activated T-cells expressing CD40LG can also interact with CD40 on endothelial cells to induce production of inflammatory cytokines. The transient expression of CD40LG allows T-cells to stimulate selected CD40-bearing cells to participate in the immune response. Increased levels of sCD40LG have been measured in patients with SLE, RA, inflammatory bowel diseases, systemic sclerosis, and Sjogren's syndrome.