Induction of proliferation and monocytic differentiation of human CD34+ cells by CD137 ligand signaling.

CD137 is a member of the tumor necrosis factor receptor family and is involved in the regulation of activation, proliferation, differentiation, and cell death of leukocytes. Bidirectional signaling exists for the CD137 receptor/ligand system, as CD137 ligand, which is expressed as a transmembrane protein, can also transduce signals into the cells on which it is expressed. In this study, we have identified expression of CD137 in human bone marrow and expression of CD137 ligand on a subset of CD34+ cells.

CD137 is expressed on blood vessel walls at sites of inflammation and enhances monocyte migratory activity.

The cytokine receptor CD137 is a member of the TNF receptor family and a potent T cell costimulatory molecule. Its ligand is expressed on antigen presenting cells as a transmembrane protein and it too can deliver signals into the cells it is expressed on (reverse signaling). In monocytes, immobilized CD137 protein induces activation, prolongation of survival and proliferation.