B cells and autoimmunity

There is a growing appreciation for the role for B cells in autoimmune disorders in which inflammation is driven by T cells, in addition to the well-established role for B cells in autoimmune disorders characterized by pathogenic auto-antibodies. Current information on tolerance checkpoints in B cells, B cell depletion, BAFF blockade, regulatory B cells and clonal ignorance mediated by the SIAE/Siglec pathway will be reviewed.

► B cells contribute to both auto-antibody linked and helper T cell mediated inflammatory disorders. ► Tolerance checkpoints in murine and human B lymphocytes are discussed. ► Lessons from Rituximab mediated B cell depletion and Bemilumab mediated BAFF antagonism in human autoimmune subjects are considered. ► Current views on regulatory B cells have been described. ► The contribution of the SIAE/Siglec pathway and clonal ignorance in autoimmunity have been discussed.