Marginal-zone B cells

Abstract
Naive, long-lived B cells in rodents and humans are heterogeneous in phenotype, topography and functions. Follicular recirculating B cells populate follicles in the spleen and lymph nodes; static marginal-zone (MZ) B cells are enriched in the MZ of the spleen; and B1 cells recirculate between the blood and the body cavities. Different B-cell clones are enriched with various B-cell subsets by means of a mechanism of positive selection, maturation and maintenance. Selection of the MZ repertoire depends on the rate of clonal production and the specific molecular signals that are received, in part through the B-cell clonal receptor (BCR). Clonal signals through BCRs integrate with signals for survival (through the tumour-necrosis-factor receptor family) and movement (through G-protein-coupled receptors) in regulating the selection and function of MZ B cells. In vitro, MZ B cells present antigen to T cells faster and more efficiently than follicular B cells. Favoured by their location and easy triggering, MZ and B1 B cells are early participants in in vivo T-cell-independent antigen responses and generate a vigorous plasma-cell response. MZ alterations are associated with various autoimmune conditions in both mouse and human.

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