ABSTRACT
C D137 is a member of the TNF receptor superfamily which may be induced on a variety of cells, including activated T lymphocytes, natural killer cells and dendritic cells. Studies performed both in vitro and in vivo have suggested that CD 137 activation pathway is capable of regulating cellular and molecular components of both innate and adaptive immunity. As we will discuss, interaction between CD 137 receptor and its ligand may be a critical link between innate and adaptive immunity. Not surprisingly then, this receptor/ligand pair represents an attractive target for the immunotherapy. While there is ample evidence indicating that CD 137 signaling promotes the regression of established tumors in mouse models, recent studies also demonstrate the role of CD 137 in the inhibition of systemic autoimmune diseases in some animal models. Manipu lation of this pathway may represent a promising approach for treatment of cancer and other immunological diseases.
