An essential role for BAFF in the normal development of B cells through a BCMA-independent pathway.
Journal:
Science 2001 SepAuthors:
Schiemann B, Gommerman JL, Vora K, Cachero TG, Shulga-Morskaya S, Dobles M, Frew E, Scott ML
Abstract
The B cell activating factor BAFF (BlyS/TALL-1/zTNF4) is a tumor necrosis factor (TNF)-related ligand that promotes B cell survival and binds to three receptors (BCMA, TACI, and the recently described BAFF-R). Here we report an absolute requirement for BAFF in normal B cell development. Examination of secondary lymphoid organs from BAFF-deficient mice revealed an almost complete loss of follicular and marginal zone B lymphocytes. In contrast, mice lacking BCMA had normal-appearing B lymphocyte c
...[more]ompartments. BAFF therefore plays a crucial role in B cell development and can function through receptors other than BCMA.[less]
Mesh Headings:
Animals, Antigens, CD, B-Cell Activating Factor, B-Cell Maturation Antigen, B-Lymphocyte Subsets, B-Lymphocytes, Bone Marrow Cells, Cell Separation, Cell Survival, Flow Cytometry, Immunoglobulins, Leukopoiesis, Lymph Nodes, Lymphocyte Count, Lymphoid Tissue, Membrane Proteins, Mice, Mice, Inbred A, Mice, Knockout, Phenotype, Receptors, Tumor Necrosis Factor, Signal Transduction, Spleen, Thymus Gland, Tumor Necrosis Factor-alpha