Costimulatory molecules and T-cell-B-cell interactions.

This article focuses on activating and inhibiting costimulatory signals that are delivered to the T cell from antigen-presenting cells, mediating and modulating T-cell clonal expansion and development of effector functions, as well as costimulatory signals that are delivered by activated T cells to interacting target cells. The coordinated expression and interaction of these molecules regulates responses to foreign antigens and avoidance of response to self-antigens. Knowledge of the structure and function of these costimulatory molecules can be used to manipulate immune function and inhibit autoimmunity and inflammation in the setting of disease.