Antigen-presenting astrocytes drive CNS autoimmunity via CD40

Astrocytes expressing CD40 and MHC-II can present antigens and activate CD4+ T cells within the central nervous system, researchers have found. In a mouse model of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis, CD40 on astrocytes is activated by CD40L expressed on T cells, fuelling CNS autoimmunity. The findings identify astrocytes as key players in neuroimmune disease and potential therapeutic targets.

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