CD40 and necrotizing enterocolitis: CD40 is present in platelet transfusions in both the alpha granules and the platelet membranes, and it acts on the endothelial cell.5 Reviews have suggested an association between CD40 and retinopathy of prematurity,32 and evidence suggests that CD40 may be protective against NEC.33 Recent studies with murine models have demonstrated that platelet transfusions induce inflammation in neonatal mice without underlying inflammatory conditions.7