Clone DN254 recognizes the human CD254 antigen, also known as receptor activator of nuclear factor kappa-B ligand (RANKL) or TNF-related activation-induced cytokine (TRANCE). CD254 is an essential osteoclastic differentiation and activation factor which plays multiple roles in the immune system. It is reported, that RANK and CD254 (RANKL) may be important regulators of interactions between T cells and dendritic cells and is involved in the regulation of the T cell–dependent immune response. CD254 is expressed in the peripheral lymph nodes, in spleen, peripheral blood leukocytes, bone marrow, heart, placenta, skeletal muscle, stomach, and thyroid.