Semaphorin SEMA4D in the immune system

Class IV semaphorin Sema4D, like other members of semaphorin family, plays a key role in the processes of axonal guidance during neurons outgrowth. However, its effects in the organism go beyond the regulation of neurogenesis. So, sema4D is also widely represented in the immune system and controls various forms of immune response. In this paper, a detailed analysis of the immunoregulatory Sema4D effects in vitro and in vivo is presented, with a special emphasis on semaphorin receptors in the immune system and mechanisms for the realization of Sema4D-dependent effects in immune cells. The urgency of the work is dictated by the fact that this semaphorin is currently considered as a promising therapeutic target in the treatment of a number of diseases, and the use of such therapy requires a clear understanding of the role of Sema4D in the control of immunity.