Multiple effects of CD40–CD40L axis in immunity against infection and cancer

Abstract

Anjuman Ara,1,2 Khawaja Ashfaque Ahmed,1,2 Jim Xiang1,2 1Cancer Research Cluster, Saskatchewan Cancer Agency, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada; 2Division of Oncology, College of Medicine, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada Abstract: CD8+ cytotoxic T lymphocyte (CTL) protects against infection and cancer cells. Understanding the mechanisms involved in generation and maintenance of effective CTL responses is essential for improving disease therapy and vaccine protocols. During CTL responses, immune cells encounter several tightly regulated signaling pathways; therefore, in such a dynamic process, proper integration of critical signals is necessary to orchestrate an effective immune response. In this review, we have focused on CD40–CD40L interactions (a key signal) in the regulation of dendritic cell (DC)–T cell (CD4+ T and CD8+ T) cross-talk, rescuing CTL exhaustion, and converting DC tolerization. We have also highlighted the knowledge gap and future directions to design immunotherapies. Keywords: CD40–CD40L, costimulatory signals, T-cell immunity, CTL exhaustion, mTORC1, trogocytosis

Keywords

• CD40-CD40L
• costimulatory signals
• T cell immunity
• CTL exhaustion
• mTORC1