The Role of B Cells in the Pathogenesis of Type 1 Diabetes

Overview

Journal Front Immunol

Date 2025 Jan 8

PMID 39776900

Authors

Ya-Nan Wang

Ruihua Li

Yaxuan Huang

Hui Chen

Hao Nie

Lian Liu

Xiaoting Zou

Jixin Zhong

Bing Zheng

Quan Gong

Affiliations

Soon will be listed here.

Abstract

Type 1 diabetes (T1D) is a metabolic disorder caused by a complete lack of insulin, primarily manifested by hyperglycemia. The mechanisms underlying the onset of T1D are complex, involving genetics, environment, and various unknown factors, leading to the infiltration of various immune components into the islets. Besides T cells, B cells are now considered important contributors to the pathogenesis of T1D, according to recent studies. In non-obese diabetic (NOD) mice, the absence of B cells prevents the development of T1D, and B-cell depletion can even restore the function of pancreatic β cells, emphasizing their involvement in the development of T1D. Naturally, besides pathogenic B cells, regulatory B cells (Bregs) might have a protective function in T1D. This article examines the mechanisms behind B-cell tolerance and the defects in B-cell tolerance checkpoints in T1D. We explored possible functions of B cells in T1D, including the role of islet autoantibodies in T1D, T-B cell interactions, and the role of Bregs in the pathogenesis of T1D. We also summarized the advances of B cell-targeted therapy, exploring new methods for intervention and treatment of T1D.

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