Aim: To investigate whether 4-1BB could promote the proliferation and survival of CD8(+) T cells proliferation, and the activity of protein kinase B (Akt).
Methods: Highly purified CD8(+) T cells were separated and stimulated by CD3 antibody. The crosslink of 3H3 and the proliferation and antiapoptosis of CD8(+) T cells were examined.
Results: The crosslink of 3H3 promoted the proliferation and survival of CD8(+) T cells. 4-1BB induced by 3H3 promoted the phosphorylated level and kinase activity of Akt.
Conclusion: Akt pathway might participate in 4-1BB which promoted the proliferation and survival of CD8(+) T cells induced by 3H3.