Critical role of lipid rafts in CD154-mediated T cell signaling

Although signal pathways triggered via the CD40 molecule are well characterized, those induced via CD154 are less known. This study demonstrates that engagement of CD154 in Jurkat D1.1 cells with soluble CD40 leads to PKC alpha and delta activation, calcium mobilization, and phosphorylation of the Map kinases ERK1/2 and p38. Such response is accompanied by significant recruitment of CD 154 into lipid rafts. Disruption of lipid rafts integrity with nystatin or methyl beta-cyclodextrin abrogated PKC alpha PKC delta and p38 phosphorylation, but had no effect on ERK1/2 phosphorylation. Inhibition of PKC activation completely abolished p38 phosphorylation but had no effect on ERK1/2 phosphorylation, suggesting that localization of CD154 within lipid rafts is an absolute requirement for CD154-induced PKC alpha- aand PKC delta-dependent p38 phosphorylation. Furthermore, CD154 acts as co-stimulator for the production of IL-2 in an APC-superantigen-T-cell. activation model. The results obtained demonstrate for the first time, that lipid rafts are of immunological relevance for CD154-triggered signals, and reinforce the importance of CD154 in T-cell activation.