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Flow Cytometric Characterization of Murine B Cell Development
Published on: January 22, 2021
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B cell development undergoes profound modifications and adaptations during pregnancy in mice
Damián O Muzzio1, Rocío Soldati2, Jens Ehrhardt3
1Research Laboratory, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University of Greifswald, Greifswald, Germany Experimental Obstetrics and Gynecology Medical Faculty, Otto-von-Guericke University, Magdeburg, Germany.
Biology of Reproduction
|September 12, 2014
Summary
Pregnancy alters B cell populations, reducing immature B cells in bone marrow and blood while increasing mature B cells in tissues near the fetus. This adaptation supports fetal gestation and maternal immunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Reproductive Biology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Pregnancy requires balancing maternal immune tolerance for fetal development with pathogen defense.
- The role of B cells, crucial for immune responses, during pregnancy remains largely unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the dynamic changes in B cell populations within the maternal immune system during pregnancy.
- To understand how B cells adapt to accommodate the semiallogeneic fetus.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of B cell subsets (pre/pro, immature, mature, FO, marginal zone) in bone marrow, blood, spleen, lymph nodes, and peritoneal cavity of pregnant mice.
- Quantification of B cell-activating factor (BAFF) and immunoglobulin (IgM, IgA, IgG3) levels.
Main Results:
- Decreased numbers of pre/pro and immature B cells in bone marrow, blood, and spleen.
- Accumulation of mature B cells in bone marrow, uterine lymph nodes, and peritoneal cavity.
- Increased marginal zone B cells in the spleen and elevated serum IgM, IgA, and IgG3 titers.
Conclusions:
- Maternal B cell compartment undergoes significant redistribution and maturation during pregnancy.
- These adaptations likely facilitate fetal tolerance and maintain maternal immune surveillance against pathogens.
