CD40 molecule (Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 5) (CD40)

CD40, also known as Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily Member 5 (TNFRSF5), is a critical costimulatory receptor expressed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs), including dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages (UniProt: P25942). In the specific context of dendritic cell-tumor fusion vaccines, CD40 present on the dendritic cell-derived portion plays a pivotal role in bridging innate and adaptive immunity (PubMed: 11544000). Activation of CD40, typically through interaction with its ligand CD40L (CD154) or agonistic antibodies, triggers the maturation of the fusion cells, characterized by the upregulation of MHC molecules and costimulatory markers like CD80 and CD86 (NCBI: NBK556002). This process significantly enhances the ability of the fusion cells to present tumor-associated antigens to T cells, thereby inducing a potent and specific anti-tumor immune response (PubMed: 17404255). Therapeutic strategies targeting CD40, such as the use of agonistic antibodies like sotigalimab, aim to leverage this mechanism to overcome immune tolerance in various malignancies (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03165994). However, clinical application requires careful management of potential systemic inflammatory toxicities, such as cytokine release syndrome (PubMed: 30104341).

Other names

Tumor necrosis factor receptor superfamily member 5TNFRSF5B-cell surface antigen CD40Bp50CDW40CD154 receptor

Agonism of the CD40 receptor to stimulate antigen-presenting cell maturation, enhance cytokine production (e.g., IL-12), and promote T-cell mediated anti-tumor immunity (PubMed: 17404255).