Abstract
Interaction of 4-1BB (CD137) and its ligand (4-1BBL) is thought to positively regulate cell-mediated and humoral immune responses. We have prepared transgenic mouse strains that express 4-1BBL cDNA under the control of MHC class II I-Eα promoter. The 4-1BBL-transgenic mice show progressive splenomegaly and selective depletion of B220+ B cells accompanied with low levels of circulating IgG and defective humoral responses to Ag challenge. In addition, splenocytes from the transgenic mice fail to provide stimulation for allogeneic T cells in both lymphoproliferative and CTL responses in vitro, whereas their T cells remain functionally normal. Our results reveal unexpected functions of 4-1BBL in the regulation of humoral immune responses and Ag presentation.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 2671-2676 |
Number of pages | 6 |
Journal | Journal of Immunology |
Volume | 167 |
Issue number | 5 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Sep 1 2001 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Immunology