CD137 antigen (CD137)

CD137, also known as 4-1BB, is a type I transmembrane glycoprotein and a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily. It is inducibly expressed on activated T cells, NK cells, and other immune cells, and functions as a costimulatory receptor. Upon engagement with its ligand, 4-1BBL, or agonist antibodies, CD137 promotes T cell proliferation, survival, and cytokine production, leading to enhanced immune responses, particularly against tumors. It is a key target for cancer immunotherapy, with agonist antibodies and CAR-T cell therapies utilizing CD137 signaling showing promise in clinical trials.

Other names

4-1BBTNFRSF9ILACDw137Ly63

Agonist anti-CD137 antibodies bind to CD137, triggering downstream signaling pathways that enhance T cell activation, proliferation, survival, and cytokine production. This leads to enhanced antitumor immunity.