Regulatory B Lymphocytes in HumansA Potential Role in Autoimmunity

摘要

The physiology of B cells has been revolutionized by the attribution of a number of new functions to their already established role in antibody production. Sub-populations of B cells have consequently been delineated, and Breg cells have been identified in mice, but not yet in humans. These Breg cells have the capacity to restrain immune responses and thus prevent pathogenic autoimmunity. Alteration of their function might signal an increased likelihood of disturbed immune homeosta-sis, making Breg cells an appealing target for immuno-therapy, provided a confident characterization can be made.