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Immunological functions of splenic B-lymphocytes
1Department of Pathology and Microbiology, College of Veterinary Medicine, Kansas State University, Manhattan 66506.
Critical Reviews in Immunology
|January 1, 1992
Summary
This review details splenic B cells, their subsets, and functions in humoral immunity. It explores their structure, migration, interactions, and roles in antibody production and immune regulation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- The spleen is crucial for B-lymphocyte (B cell)-mediated humoral immunity.
- Understanding splenic B cell subsets and their functions is key to immunology.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the key features and functions of splenic B cells.
- To examine splenic B cell subsets, their localization within the spleen, and their migratory behavior.
Main Methods:
- Characterization of splenic B cell subsets by phenotypic markers and functions.
- Analysis of splenic structural compartments and their relation to B cell localization.
- In situ assessment of antigen-specific B cells using immunocytochemical methods and computer-aided imaging.
Main Results:
- Splenic B cells exhibit diverse subsets (virgin, memory, CD5+) with distinct roles.
- Spleen structure (red pulp, follicles, PALS, germinal centers) dictates B cell localization and migration.
- Immunocytochemistry and imaging reveal in situ characteristics of antigen-specific B cells, including antibody-forming cells.
Conclusions:
- Splenic B cells are vital for humoral immunity, antibody production, and immune regulation.
- Their functions are influenced by interactions with other immune cells, cytokines, and the neuroendocrine system.