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Role of IL-12 in human B lymphocyte proliferation and differentiation

D F Jelinek1, J K Braaten

  • 1Department of Immunology, Mayo Clinic/Foundation, Rochester, MN 55905.

Journal of Immunology (Baltimore, Md. : 1950)
|February 15, 1995
PubMed

Insights

Interleukin-12 (IL-12) modestly enhances B cell growth but requires IL-2 to significantly boost Ig secretion. IL-12 acts as a potent costimulus for B cell differentiation, distinct from IL-2 signals.

Area of Science:

  • Immunology
  • Cell Biology

Background:

  • Interleukin-12 (IL-12) is a cytokine with known immunomodulatory functions.
  • Its specific role in human peripheral blood B cell responsiveness requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the direct effects of IL-12 on human B cell growth and differentiation.
  • To determine if IL-12 can act as a B cell differentiation factor, alone or in combination with other cytokines.

Main Methods:

  • FACS-purified human B cells were used (>99% purity).
  • A polyclonal B cell activation system with Cowan I Staphylococcus aureus was employed.
  • B cell growth, differentiation, and immunoglobulin (Ig) secretion were measured.
  • Interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) levels and effects were assessed.

Main Results:

  • IL-12 showed modest augmentation of B cell growth but was ineffective alone for differentiation.
  • IL-12 significantly enhanced Ig secretion when combined with IL-2, acting as a potent costimulus.
  • IL-12's effects on B cells were direct, not mediated by T cells, NK cells, or IFN-γ.

Conclusions:

  • IL-12 is a potent costimulus for B cell differentiation, particularly enhancing IL-2-driven Ig secretion.
  • The signaling pathways of IL-12 in B cell differentiation appear distinct from those of IL-2.

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