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Updated: Apr 18, 2026

In Vitro Differentiation Model of Human Normal Memory B Cells to Long-lived Plasma Cells
Published on: January 20, 2019
Competing gene regulatory networks drive naive and memory B cell differentiation
Pietro Demela1, Laura Esposito1, Pietro Marchesan1
1Human Technopole, Viale Rita Levi-Montalcini 1, 20157, Milan, Italy.
Human B cell differentiation involves distinct gene regulatory networks (GRNs) for naive and memory cells. Memory B cells favor plasma cell pathways, while naive cells diverge, impacting immune responses and autoimmunity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Molecular Biology
- Systems Biology
Background:
- Understanding B cell differentiation is key for immunity and autoimmune diseases.
- Gene regulatory networks (GRNs) orchestrate cell fate decisions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To map GRNs controlling human naive and memory B cell differentiation.
- To investigate the role of specific genes (IRF4, PRDM1) in B cell fate.
- To identify heritable transcriptional states in differentiating B cells.
Main Methods:
- Mapping of GRNs in human B cell differentiation.
- CRISPR-Cas9 gene editing to perturb key regulators.
- Machine learning analysis of transcriptomic data.
Main Results:
- Naive and memory B cells share early GRNs but diverge later.
- Memory B cells preferentially activate plasma cell differentiation GRNs (e.g., IRF4).
- IRF4/PRDM1 perturbation redirects naive B cells towards germinal center fate.
- Machine learning reveals heritable transcriptional states in sister plasma cells.
Conclusions:
- Distinct regulatory trajectories govern naive versus memory B cell differentiation.
- Heritable transcriptional programs influence B cell fate decisions.
- Findings provide insights into immune responses, vaccination, and autoimmunity.
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