New perspectives in B-1 B cell development and function.
In contrast to the predominant population of B-2 B cells produced in the bone marrow, B-1 B cells are a minor population of B lymphocytes that are found in multiple tissues, including the pleural and peritoneal cavities in mice. Although the role of B-1 B cells as effectors of innate-like immunity is widely accepted, their developmental origin has been controversial. This review highlights recent experimental data from murine studies supporting the hypothesis that B-1 B cells belong to a developmental lineage distinct from B-2 B cells, and draws attention to recent studies that have defined new roles for the B-1a and B-1b B-cell subsets in the response to bacteria and self-antigens.
Montecino-Rodriguez
Encarnacion
E
Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, CA 90095, USA.
Dorshkind
Kenneth
K
D000818:Animals; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D051379:Mice