J Leukoc Biol. 2018 Dec 13. doi: 10.1002/JLB.5RU0518-199R. [Epub ahead of print]

Regulatory B cells and advances in transplantation.

Li J¹, Luo Y¹, Wang X², Feng G¹.

Abstract

The effects of B cell subsets with regulatory activity on the immune response to an allograft have evoked increasing interest. Here, we summarize the function and signaling of regulatory B cells (Bregs) and their potential effects on transplantation. These cells are able to suppress the immune system directly via ligand-receptor interactions and indirectly by secretion of immunosuppressive cytokines, particularly IL-10. In experimental animal models, the extensively studied IL-10-producing B cells have shown unique therapeutic advantages in the transplant field. In addition, adoptive transfer of B cell subsets with regulatory activity may reveal a new approach to prolonging allograft survival. Recent clinical observations on currently available therapies targeting B cells have revealed that Bregs play an important role in immune tolerance and that these cells are expected to become a new target of immunotherapy for transplant-related diseases.