Phenotypic and functional heterogeneity of human memory B cells

Semin Immunol. 2008 Feb;20(1):67-82. doi: 10.1016/j.smim.2007.12.006. Epub 2008 Feb 6.

Abstract

Memory B cells are more heterogeneous than previously thought. Given that B cells play powerful antibody-independent effector functions, it seems reasonable to assume division of labor between distinct memory B cells subpopulations in both protective and pathogenic immune responses. Here we review the information emerging regarding the heterogeneity of human memory B cells. A better understanding of this topic should greatly improve our ability to target specific B cell subsets either in vaccine responses or in autoimmune diseases and organ rejection among other pathological conditions where B cells play central pathogenic roles.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • ADP-ribosyl Cyclase 1 / immunology
  • Animals
  • Antigens, CD19 / immunology
  • B-Lymphocyte Subsets / cytology*
  • B-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology*
  • Biomarkers
  • Cell Lineage / immunology
  • Humans
  • Immunity, Cellular
  • Immunoglobulin D
  • Immunologic Memory*
  • Immunophenotyping
  • Mice
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 7 / immunology

Substances

  • Antigens, CD19
  • Biomarkers
  • Immunoglobulin D
  • Tumor Necrosis Factor Receptor Superfamily, Member 7
  • ADP-ribosyl Cyclase 1