Plasma Cells, the Next Generation: Beyond Antibody Secretion
1Department of Biomedical Sciences, Center for Immunobiology, Western Michigan University Homer Stryker M.D. School of Medicine, Kalamazoo, MI, United States.
Frontiers in Immunology
|December 12, 2019
Summary
Plasma cells (PCs), crucial for immunity via antibody secretion, also regulate hematopoiesis and neuro-inflammation. Their diverse functions beyond antibodies offer new immunotherapy potential.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Hematology
Background:
- Plasma cells (PCs) are terminally differentiated B lymphocytes.
- PCs are known for antibody (Ab) secretion and humoral immunity.
- Emerging evidence shows PCs influence processes beyond Ab production.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize current knowledge of PC biology.
- To focus on PC functions independent of Ab secretion.
- To discuss PC-based immunotherapy applications.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of recent studies on PC biology.
- Analysis of PC-environment interactions.
- Exploration of translational applications of PC immunotherapy.
Main Results:
- PCs regulate critical processes like hematopoiesis and neuro-inflammation.
- PC functionality is influenced by environmental signals.
- PCs possess a diverse functional repertoire beyond Ab production.
Conclusions:
- Plasma cells have multifaceted roles in health and disease.
- Understanding non-canonical PC functions is key for novel therapies.
- PC immunotherapy holds significant translational promise.
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