Molecular and tissue regulation of memory B cells

Memory B cells underpin the capacity of the immune system to confer durable protective immunity by mounting rapid and enhanced secondary antibody responses. Hence, they are central to vaccine efficacy and to limiting long-term tissue damage after reinfection. Despite their importance, the cellular origins, molecular programs, and tissue-specific specialization of memory B cells remain incompletely understood. Here, we review recent advances in memory B cell development and regulation, with a particular focus on tissue-resident memory B cells. We discuss how memory B cells arise from distinct developmental precursors as well as the extrinsic regulators and molecular programs that govern memory B cell identity and function. We further examine emerging evidence for tissue-resident memory B cell populations in the respiratory airways and their implications for mucosal vaccination strategies against airborne pathogens. Together, these findings provide a framework for leveraging memory B cell biology in clinical applications.