Work

Age-Associated B Cells: A T-bet–Dependent Effector with Roles in Protective and Pathogenic Immunity

Year: 2015

Type: review

Abstract: A newly discovered B cell subset, age-associated B cells, expresses the transcription factor T-bet, has a unique surface phenotype, and accumulates progressively with age. Moreover, B cells with these general features are associated with viral infections and autoimmunity in both mice and humans. In this article, we review current understanding of the characteristics, origins, and functions of these cells. We also suggest that the protective versus pathogenic actions of these cells reflect appropriate versus aberrant engagement of regulatory mechanisms that control the Ab responses to nucleic acid-containing Ags.

Source: The Journal of Immunology

DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1501209

Authors: Kira Rubtsova, Anatoly V Rubtsov, Michael P Cancro, Philippa Marrack

Institutions: Howard Hughes Medical Institute, National Jewish Health, University of Colorado Anschutz, University of Colorado Denver, University of Pennsylvania

Language: English

Topic: T-cell and B-cell Immunology

Subfield: Immunology

Field: Immunology and Microbiology

Domain: Life Sciences

SDG: Good health and well-being

Open Access status: green

Funders: Howard Hughes Medical Institute, National Institute on Aging, National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases