Classification of B-cells according to their differentiation status, their micro-anatomical localisation and their developmental lineage

Immunol Lett. 2003 Dec 15;90(2-3):179-86. doi: 10.1016/j.imlet.2003.09.007.

Abstract

B-lymphocytes or B-cells form a diverse and flexible repertoire of immune cells that are reactive to almost all potential pathogens by means of the production of antigen-specific immunoglobulins. They can be divided into different populations or subsets, characterised by a distinct combination of properties. These subsets are identified on the base of their differentiation status (precursor B-cells, peripheral B-cells), their localisation in the micro-anatomical compartments of the B-cell follicle (marginal zone B-cells, lymphocytic corona B-cells, follicle centre B-cells), and the developmental lineage to which they belong (B-1 cells, and B-2 or conventional B-cells). The latter classification of B-cells into B-1 cells and B-2 cells is commonly followed by immunologists, mainly in the study of mice models, while pathologists and haematologists tend to use a terminology for B-cells which refers to their localisation in the micro-anatomical compartments of the B-cell follicle and/or differentiation status. In this review, we will discuss the various subsets of B-cells and point to the similarities between the various classification systems in use.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • B-Lymphocytes / classification*
  • B-Lymphocytes / cytology*
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Cell Differentiation*
  • Cell Lineage*
  • Cell Movement
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Spleen / cytology
  • Spleen / immunology