Anti-CD40 (azide free), clone 2Q1632

CD40 is a type I cell surface protein belonging to the tumor necrosis factor superfamily of cell surface receptors. In mice it is expressed on B lineage cells, follicular dendritic cells, thymic epithelium, and interdigitating cells in the T-cell zone of secondary lymphoid organs(1-5). CD40 first becomes detectable on a subset of small pre-B II cells in bone marrow, with the levels of CD40 expression increasing thereafter during B-cell maturation. Immature B cells (IgM+IgDloB220lo) express intermediate levels of CD40, whereas mature B cells (IgM+IgDhiB220hi) express high levels(4). CD40 has a central role in B cell growth and differentiation, and signalling through CD40 in combination with IL-4 reportedly induces immunoglobulin isotype switching and secretion of IgE(6). The agonistic monoclonal antibody closely resembles gp39/CD40 ligand in its ability to stimulate proliferation of small, resting B lymphocytes in the absence of other cofactors(2). Applications: Suitable for use in Flow Cytometry, Immunoprecipitation and In vitro induction of proliferation of mature B lymphocytes. Other applications have not been tested. Recommended Dilution: Optimal dilutions to be determined by the researcher. Storage and Stability: May be stored at 4°C for short-term only. For long-term storage and to avoid repeated freezing and thawing, add sterile 40-50% glycerol, aliquot and store at -20°C. Aliquots are stable for at least 12 months at -20°C. For maximum recovery of product, centrifuge the original vial after thawing and prior to removing the cap. Further dilutions can be made in assay buffer.