Target intelligence / Profile preview

OX40 ligand (OX40L) (OX40L)

Target
OX40L
Molecular classification
Tumor necrosis factor superfamily member (ligand), Type II transmembrane protein, Ligand (for co-stimulatory receptor), Immune checkpoint ligand
01

Overview

OX40 ligand (OX40L), also known as CD252 or TNFSF4, is a type II transmembrane glycoprotein expressed primarily on activated antigen-presenting cells such as dendritic cells, B cells, and macrophages, as well as some non-immune cells[5][2][3]. Its primary function is to bind the OX40 receptor (CD134, TNFRSF4) on activated T cells, especially CD4+ T cells, providing a critical costimulatory signal necessary for full T cell activation, expansion, effector function, and memory formation[2][3][6][8]. The OX40L–OX40 interaction enhances T cell survival and proliferation, supports Th1, Th2, Th17, and Tfh cell responses, and inhibits regulatory T cell activity[2][3][6]. Dysregulation of this pathway is implicated in inflammatory diseases (such as atopic dermatitis), autoimmunity, and cancer[6][8]. Therapeutic targeting of OX40L or OX40 (either blockade or agonism) is being explored in various diseases, with several monoclonal antibodies and fusion proteins in clinical development[6]. Note: The query "OX40L ligand binding OX40 receptor" refers to a ligand–receptor interaction, not a single molecule. If a single target is required, pick either "OX40 ligand" (OX40L) or "OX40 receptor" (OX40). This record describes **OX40 ligand (OX40L)**, the TNF superfamily member that binds to OX40. If structured information is required for OX40 (the receptor), a separate entry should be made. - The record is marked **is_incorrect: true** due to the improper designation as a single target; the canonical form is "OX40 ligand (OX40L)," which binds the "OX40 receptor (CD134/TNFRSF4)"[2][5].

Other names
CD252TNFSF4gp34OX40 ligandOX40LTumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 4Cluster of differentiation 252
02

Mechanism of action

Blockade of OX40L–OX40 interaction interrupts T cell costimulatory signaling, reducing effector and memory T cell numbers or function Agonist OX40L–OX40 signaling promotes T cell activity, proliferation, and cytokine secretion

03

Biological functions

Immune response modulationT cell costimulationT cell survival and proliferationMemory T cell developmentCytokine induction/productionInflammation
04

Disease associations

InflammationAtopic dermatitisCancerAutoimmune diseases (such as systemic lupus erythematosus)AllergyOther T cell-mediated diseases
05

Safety considerations

Risk of broad immune modulation (potential for immunosuppression or enhanced autoimmunity)Cytokine release syndrome with potent agonistsPossible impairment of host defense against infectionsEffects on tissue inflammation and repair
06

Interacting drugs

Rocatinlimab (KHK4083; anti-OX40)

4 more in the full profile.

07

Biomarkers

OX40 or OX40L expression on T cells or antigen-presenting cells (APCs) as immune activation biomarkersCytokine levels (e.g., IL-4, IL-13, IL-17, IL-22) as indicators of pathway activity in diseases like atopic dermatitis

Beyond the preview

Go deeper on OX40 ligand (OX40L) (OX40L).

Explore the evidence, development activity, and competitive landscape with Gosset’s full data platform.

Drug pipeline

Full profile access

Explore the programs pursuing this target and their development progress.

  • Drug candidates
  • Developers
  • Development stage

Clinical trials

Full profile access

Follow the clinical studies evaluating therapies directed at this target.

  • Trial design
  • Status
  • Readouts

Competitive landscape

Full profile access

Compare approaches across drug candidates, modalities, and indications.

  • Programs
  • Modalities
  • Indications

Literature & evidence

Full profile access

Investigate the research and source evidence behind target biology and development.

  • Publications
  • Sources
  • Analysis

Patents

Full profile access

Explore patent activity around therapies and technologies addressing this target.

  • Patents
  • Assignees
  • Technologies

Research & analysis

Full profile access

Connect target biology, drug development, and emerging evidence in your research.

  • Biology
  • Development news
  • Analysis

Bring the full picture into focus.

See how Gosset can support your research on OX40 ligand (OX40L) (OX40L).

Explore the full profile

Gosset Free

Get started with Gosset.

Enter your work email and we’ll be in touch with next steps.

Work email preferred.

Book a call