Do human B-1 lymphocytes truly exist?
Mónica Itzel Martínez-Gutiérrez1, Irma Cañedo-Solares2, Fernando Gómez-Chávez3
1Plan de Estudios Combinados en Medicina, Facultad de Medicina, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Mexico City, Mexico.
Frontiers in Immunology
|April 29, 2026
Summary
Human B-1 cells, innate-like lymphocytes, are crucial for immune homeostasis. Recent research confirms their existence and function, though some aspects remain under investigation.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
Background:
- B-1 cells, discovered in mice, possess innate-like properties and contribute to homeostasis via natural antibody secretion.
- Their presence in humans was long debated due to identification challenges, unlike conventional B-2 cells.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review and compare human B-1 cells with their murine counterparts.
- To discuss the identification, phenotype, function, and unresolved questions surrounding human B-1 cells.
Main Methods:
- Comparative analysis of murine and human B-1 cell literature.
- Review of phenotypic markers (CD19+, CD20+, CD27+, CD38low/int, CD43+) and functional characteristics.
Main Results:
- Human B-1-like cells identified in 2011 with a specific phenotype (CD19+ CD20+ CD27+ CD38low/int CD43+).
- These cells are found in various tissues and spontaneously secrete antibodies, similar to murine B-1 cells.
- Differences exist, including somatic hypermutation and IgG secretion, and their role in disease is still debated.
Conclusions:
- Human B-1 cells are increasingly accepted as counterparts to murine B-1 cells, contributing to immune homeostasis.
- Further research is needed to clarify their tissue residency, developmental origins, and precise roles in health and disease.
- Understanding human B-1 cells is crucial for their clinical relevance in immune-mediated conditions.
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