Human regulatory B cells in health and disease: therapeutic potential

J Clin Invest. 2017 Mar 1;127(3):772-779. doi: 10.1172/JCI85113. Epub 2017 Mar 1.

Abstract

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) modulate immune responses predominantly, although not exclusively, via the release of IL-10. The importance of human Bregs in the maintenance of immune homeostasis comes from a variety of immune-related pathologies, such as autoimmune diseases, cancers, and chronic infections that are often associated with abnormalities in Breg numbers or function. A continuous effort toward understanding Breg biology in healthy individuals will provide new opportunities to develop Breg immunotherapy that could prove beneficial in treating various immune-mediated pathologies. In this Review, we discuss findings regarding human Bregs, including their mechanisms of suppression and role in different disease settings. We also propose several therapeutic strategies targeting Bregs for better management of immune disorders.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / immunology*
  • B-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / pathology
  • Humans
  • Immune System Diseases / immunology*
  • Immune System Diseases / pathology
  • Immune System Diseases / therapy*
  • Immunotherapy / methods*
  • Interleukin-10 / immunology

Substances

  • IL10 protein, human
  • Interleukin-10