CD137

Overview
CD137 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) receptor family. Its alternative names are 4-1BB and induced by lymphocyte activation (ILA).

Expression
CD137 can be expressed by activated T cells, but to a larger extent on CD8 than on CD4 T cells. In addition, CD137 expression is found on dendritic cells, follicular dendritic cells, natural killer cells, granulocytes and cells of blood vessel walls at sites of inflammation.

Specific effects on cells
The best characterized activity of CD137 is its costimulatory activity for activated T cells. Crosslinking of CD137 enhances T cell proliferatuon, IL-2 secretion survival and cytolytic activity. Further, it can enhance immune activity to eliminate tumors in mice.

Related chapters

 * 4-1BB ligand