Receptors and signaling mechanisms for B‐lymphocyte activation, proliferation and differentiation – Insights from both in vivo and in vitro approaches

Abstract

During the last three decades, a number of B‐lymphocyte specific surface antigens have been defined some of which may also show activation/differentiation specific expression. Here, we review the various signaling events and the receptor‐ligand interactions for B‐cell development, activation and differentiation. Our discussion and presentation include reviewing the in vivo and in vitro mechanisms. Focus is on the experiments that give us valuable insights into the B cell signaling mechanisms in vitro. Three significant pathways in B‐cell development – c‐Kit, FLT‐3 and IL‐7 signaling pathways are elucidated upon. Both antigen dependent and antigen independent mechanisms of B cell stimulation are also reviewed.