Alteration in Ikaros expression promotes B-1 cell differentiation into phagocytes

Ikaros is a broad transcription factor pointed as a critical regulator of lymphocyte development. Recent reports have emphasized that distinct isoforms of Ikaros control the dichotomy of the hematopoietic system into lymphoid and myeloid lineages. In addition, expression of dominant-negative isoforms of Ikaros is linked to abnormal hematopoiesis, which could culminate in hematological disorders due to loss of function of the protein. B-1 cells are an intriguing subtype of B-lymphocytes that preserves some myeloid characteristics. These cells are able to differentiate into phagocytes (B-1CDP - B-1 cell derived phagocytes) in vitro and in vivo. During such process, reprogramming of gene expression occurs: lymphoid genes are turned off, while expression of myeloid genes is increased. This study aims to investigate whether Ikaros could be related to the control of B-1 cell plasticity. Interestingly, Ikaros expression by B-1CDP cells was found to be relatively low, and the protein is abnormally localized in the cytoplasm. Moreover, the isoforms expressed by B-1 cells are different from those expressed by other lymphocytes, with expression of active isoforms being almost absent in B-1CDP. Based on these findings, Ikaros could be an important factor driving the differentiation and proliferation of B-1 cells.