The BLyS/BAFF Family of Ligands and Receptors: Key Targets in the Therapy and Understanding of Autoimmunity

Overview

Journal Ann Rheum Dis

Specialty Rheumatology

Date 2006 Oct 14

PMID 17038469

Citations 19

Authors

M P Cancro

Affiliations

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Abstract

The B lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS; also termed BAFF) family of ligands and receptors plays a central role in B lymphocyte development, selection, and homoeostasis. Members of this family can independently influence different B cell subsets, because the interactions between the two ligands and three receptors vary, and the receptors themselves are differentially expressed among developing, naive, and antigen experienced B cell subsets. These properties prompt careful assessment of how ablative therapies may influence the behaviour of upstream or downstream B lineage populations, as well as how the implementation and expectations of therapeutics targeting BLyS family members must be guided by knowledge of the B cell subsets contributing to pathogenesis.

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