Abstract
The CD21/35 receptor provides an important link between innate and adaptive immunity. Its importance during protective immune responses to encapsulated extracellular bacteria was assessed using a new line of mice completely deficient in CD21/35 expression (CD21/35-/-). CD21/35 expression was essential for the rapid trapping of C3dg-antigen complexes by B cells in vivo, especially in splenic marginal zones. Despite normal B cell development in CD21/35-/- mice, T cell-independent and -dependent antibody responses to low-dose antigens were significantly decreased, with a striking impairment in IgG3 responses. Accordingly, CD21/35-/- mice were more susceptible to acute lethal Streptococcus pneumoniae infection. Thus, CD21/35 expression is critical for early protective antibody responses to lethal pathogens that rapidly multiply and quickly overwhelm the immune system.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 713-723 |
Number of pages | 11 |
Journal | Immunity |
Volume | 17 |
Issue number | 6 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Dec 1 2002 |
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Immunology and Allergy
- Immunology
- Infectious Diseases