BAFF: a fundamental survival factor for B cells.
B-cell-activating factor of the tumour-necrosis-factor family (BAFF) enhances B-cell survival--a function that is indispensable for B-cell maturation--and has a role in enhancing immune responses. Moreover, the overexpression of BAFF results in severe autoimmune disorders in mice, and elevated serum levels of BAFF occur in some patients who have autoimmune diseases. The elucidation of the role of BAFF has set the stage for a new approach to the treatment of autoimmune disease.
Mackay
Fabienne
F
Garvan Institute of Medical Research, Department of Arthritis and Inflammation, 384 Victoria Street, Darlinghurst, New South Wales 2010, Australia. f.mackay@garvan.unsw.edu.au
Browning
Jeffrey L
JL
D000818:Animals; D015551:Autoimmunity / Q000502:physiology; D053264:B-Cell Activating Factor; D053265:B-Cell Activation Factor Receptor; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000502:physiology*; D006801:Humans; D008565:Membrane Proteins / Q000502:physiology*; D008958:Models, Molecular; D018124:Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor / Q000502:physiology; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha / Q000502:physiology*
D053264:B-Cell Activating Factor; D053265:B-Cell Activation Factor Receptor; D008565:Membrane Proteins; D018124:Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor; C435926:TNFRSF13C protein, human; C505719:TNFSF13B protein, human; D014409:Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha