Polarized helper-T-cell responses against Leishmania major in the absence of B cells

B-cell-to-T-cell signaling can shape helper T (Th) cell responses. During infection with Leishmania major, Th response is critical in determining the outcome of disease. Resistance depends on the generation of a protective Th1 response, while susceptibility is mediated by the generation of a Th2 response. In this study, we determined whether B cells are required for the development of polarized Th1 and Th2 responses during infection with L. major. Mice lacking B cells due to disruption of the immunoglobulin M locus (microMT) were infected with L. major, and disease progression and Th cell development were assessed. On the genetically resistant C57BL background, both wild-type and microMT mice controlled the infection and mounted a Th1 response. On the genetically susceptible BALB/c background, both wild-type and microMT mice were susceptible to infection and generated Th2 responses. Thus, during L. major infection, neither direct antigen presentation or costimulation by B cells nor antibody-mediated effector functions are essential for the development of polarized Th responses.