Integrin-mediated long-term B cell retention in the splenic marginal zone

TT Lu, JG Cyster - Science, 2002 - science.org
TT Lu, JG Cyster
Science, 2002science.org
The mechanisms that control localization of marginal zone (MZ) B cells are poorly
understood. Here we show that MZ B cells express elevated levels of the integrins LFA-1
(αLβ2) and α4β1 and that they bind to the ligands ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. These ligands are
expressed within the MZ in a lymphotoxin-dependent manner. Combined inhibition of LFA-1
and α4β1 causes a rapid and selective release of B cells from the MZ. Furthermore,
lipopolysaccharide-triggered MZ B cell relocalization involves down-regulation of integrin …
The mechanisms that control localization of marginal zone (MZ) B cells are poorly understood. Here we show that MZ B cells express elevated levels of the integrins LFA-1 (αLβ2) and α4β1 and that they bind to the ligands ICAM-1 and VCAM-1. These ligands are expressed within the MZ in a lymphotoxin-dependent manner. Combined inhibition of LFA-1 and α4β1 causes a rapid and selective release of B cells from the MZ. Furthermore, lipopolysaccharide-triggered MZ B cell relocalization involves down-regulation of integrin-mediated adhesion. These studies identify key requirements for MZ B cell localization and establish a role for integrins in peripheral lymphoid tissue compartmentalization.
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