The invention relates to antibody polypeptides that monovalently bind
CD40L. Antibody polypeptides that are monovalent for binding of CD40L can
inhibit CD40L activity while avoiding potential undesirable effects that
can occur with antibodies capable of divalent or multivalent binding of
CD40L. In one aspect, a monovalent anti-CD40L antibody polypeptide
consists of or comprises a single immunoglobulin variable domain that
specifically binds and antagonizes the activity of CD40L, preferably
without substantially agonizing CD40 activity. In another aspect, the
monovalent anti-CD40L antibody polypeptide is a human antibody
polypeptide. The invention further encompasses methods of antagonizing
CD40/CD40L interactions in an individual and methods of treating diseases
or disorders involving CD40/CD40L interactions, the methods involving
administering a monovalent anti-CD40L antibody polypeptide to the
individual.