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Updated: Dec 19, 2025

Evaluation of T Follicular Helper Cells and Germinal Center Response During Influenza A Virus Infection in Mice
Published on: June 27, 2020
B cells: Your besT-bet against the flu
Kenneth Zhou1, Stephanie Eisenbarth1
1Department of Laboratory Medicine, Immunobiology and Immunology, Yale University School of Medicine, New Haven, CT 06520, USA.
T-bet-positive memory B cells are identified as a unique cell type. These cells migrate to the spleen and generate protective antibodies against influenza virus infections.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- Memory B cells are crucial for long-term immunity.
- Distinct subsets of memory B cells possess unique functions and homing properties.
Purpose of the Study:
- To characterize the T-bet-positive memory B cell subset.
- To investigate the functional role of T-bet-positive memory B cells in humoral immunity.
Main Methods:
- Flow cytometry to identify T-bet-positive memory B cells.
- Adoptive transfer experiments to assess homing properties.
- ELISA to measure antibody production.
Main Results:
- T-bet-positive memory B cells were identified as a distinct population.
- These cells preferentially home to the spleen.
- T-bet-positive memory B cells produced neutralizing antibodies against influenza.
Conclusions:
- T-bet-positive memory B cells represent a specialized subset of B cells.
- Their splenic localization and antibody production contribute to influenza immunity.
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