B lymphocytes on the front line of autoimmunity

The paradigm that B cell response to self antigens (Ag) is promoted by antibodies (Ab) has become unsatisfactory. Studies over the last decade have indeed revealed that B cells serve extraordinarily diverse functions within the immune system other than Ab production. They normally play a role in the development in the regulation, as well as the activation of lymphoid architecture, regulating dentritic cells and T cell subsets function through cytokine production. Receptor editing is also essential in B cells and aids in preventing autoimmunity. Both abnormalities in the distribution of B cells subsets and clinical benefit response to B cell depletion in autoimmune states illustrate their importance. Transgenic animal models have demonstrated that sensitivity of B cells to Ag receptor cross-linking correlates to autoimmunity: negative signaling by CD5 and CD22 in maintaining tolerance through recruitment of phosphatase has thus been documented. In short, a new area has been reached, whereby B lymphocytes return as a significant contributor to autoimmune disorders.