New insights into antigen encounter by B cells

Antibody production by B lymphocytes is crucial during immune responses to pathogens and represents a major target in vaccination and immunotherapy strategies. To produce antibodies, B lymphocytes need to be activated in the lymphoid tissues by their cognate antigens, potentially in their native form. In recent years, novel insights have revealed the different ways for antigens to reach the B cell compartment. In this review, we discuss the various cell types that might serve as transport intermediates, with a focus on cellular mechanisms in dendritic cells.