Work

Multimodal effects of CD40L blockade in multiple sclerosis: Insights from preclinical and clinical studies

Year: 2026

Type: review

Abstract: Costimulatory signaling is essential for T-cell activation, tolerance, and immune homeostasis. Dysregulation of these pathways contributes to autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis. Therapeutic targeting of costimulatory molecules, particularly the CD40–CD40L axis, has demonstrated clinical success in several autoimmune conditions, including multiple sclerosis. This review integrates mechanistic insights from experimental models with clinical data to examine the effects of CD40L blockade across diverse immune and central nervous system–resident cell populations. Preclinical models highlight the complex interplay between immune cells and central nervous system–resident cells beyond costimulatory signaling alone. Clinical mechanistic studies support CD40L blockade as a promising therapeutic strategy for multiple sclerosis.

Source: Multiple Sclerosis Journal

DOI: 10.1177/13524585261490852

Authors: Ismail Muwenda, Joshua S. Mytych, Ekdanai Uawithya, Megan Reidy, Meerah Khan, Yang Mao-Draayer

Institution: Oklahoma Medical Research Foundation

Language: English

Topic: Multiple Sclerosis Research Studies

Subfield: Clinical Neurology

Field: Medicine

Domain: Health Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences