B-cell activating factor (BAFF) promotes CpG ODN-induced B cell activation and proliferation

It is controversial whether naïve B cells are directly activated in response to TLR9 ligand, CpG ODN. Although bovine blood-derived CD21+ B cells express TLR9 and proliferate in response to CpG in mixed-cell populations, purified bovine B cells do not proliferate significantly in response to CpG ODN, even when the B cell receptor is engaged. When co-cultured with CD14+ myeloid cells and/or B-cell activating factor (BAFF), a cytokine produced by activated myeloid cells, there was a significant increase in CpG-specific B cell proliferation, and the number of large B cells in general or positive for CD25, all of which are markers for B cell activation. These data suggest that activated myeloid cells and BAFF prime B cells for significant CpG-specific activation. Understanding the signals required to mediate efficient CpG-induced, antigen-independent and T-cell independent activation of B cells has implications for polyclonal B cell activation and the development of autoimmune diseases.

► B cells activation by CpG ODN is controversial.
► Purified bovine B cells express TLR9 in the absence of B cell receptor engagement.
► CpG ODNs do not promote significant proliferation of highly purified bovine B cells.
► Myeloid cells and/or BAFF significantly increase CpG-specific B cell activation.
► BCR engagement does not augment CpG-specific B cell activation.