title: Modulation of B cell responses by Toll-like receptors.
abstract: B lymphocytes are well known because of their key role in mediating humoral immune responses. Upon encounter with antigen and on cognate interaction with T cells, they differentiate into antibody-secreting plasma cells, which are critical for protection against a variety of pathogens. In addition to their antibody-production function, B cells are efficient antigen-presenting cells and express a variety of pathogen recognition receptors (PRRs). Engagement of these PRRs with their respective ligands results in cytokine and chemokine secretion and the upregulation of co-stimulatory molecules. These events constitute innate immune responses. Toll-like receptor (TLR) activation provides a third signal for B cell activation and is essential for optimal antigen-specific antibody responses. In some situations, TLR activation in B cells can result in autoimmunity. The purpose of this review is to provide some insights into the way that TLRs influence innate and adaptive B cell responses.
authors.affiliation: Vaccine & Infectious Disease Organization/International Vaccine Center, University of Saskatchewan, 120 Veterinary Road, Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, Canada, S7N 5E3.
authors.forename: Jayaum
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Booth
authors.forename: Heather
authors.initials: H
authors.lastname: Wilson
authors.forename: Steve
authors.initials: S
authors.lastname: Jimbo
authors.forename: George
authors.initials: G
authors.lastname: Mutwiri
mesh_terms: D056704:Adaptive Immunity / Q000276:immunology; D000818:Animals; D015551:Autoimmunity / Q000276:immunology; D001402:B-Lymphocytes / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007113:Immunity, Innate / Q000276:immunology; D007422:Intestines / Q000276:immunology; D051193:Toll-Like Receptors / Q000737:chemistry / Q000276:immunology*
chemical_list: D051193:Toll-Like Receptors