B-cell antigen receptor-induced apoptosis: looking for clues

Triggering of the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) can initiate divergent reponses ranging from activation and cell division to apoptosis, depending on the differentiation stage and additional signals the cell receives. Despite considerable progress in unraveling general apoptosis pathways, the route from the BCR to apoptosis execution is still quite obscure, and there is no consensus yet concerning the mechanism or the players involved. Here, we will summarize current developments in this field and will attempt to pinpoint key questions and perspectives for future research.