B cell conducts the lymphocyte orchestra.
The interest for B cells has recently been revived. They normally play a role in the development, the regulation, as well as the activation of lymphoid architecture: they regulate dendritic cells and T-cell subsets function through cytokine production. Receptor editing is also essential in B cells and aids in preventing autoimmunity. Both abnormalities in the distribution of B-cell subsets and clinical benefit response to B-cell depletion in autoimmune states illustrate their importance. A new area has thus been reached, whereby B lymphocytes return as a significant contributor to autoimmune disorders.
Youinou
Pierre
P
Laboratory of Immunology, Brest University Medical School Hospital, BP824, F29609 Brest Cedex, France. youinou@univ-brest.fr
D000818:Animals; D001327:Autoimmune Diseases / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D016175:B-Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000276:immunology / Q000378:metabolism; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology; D016207:Cytokines / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D006801:Humans; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation; D051379:Mice; D016513:Mice, SCID; D011947:Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell / Q000235:genetics / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism; D013601:T-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism / Q000502:physiology
D016207:Cytokines; D011947:Receptors, Antigen, B-Cell