Expression of complement receptors 1 and 2 on follicular dendritic cells is necessary for the generation of a strong antigen-specific IgG response

Yifu Fang, Chenguang Xu, Yang Xin Fu, V. Michael Holers, Hector Molina

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

258 Scopus citations

Abstract

Two mechanisms could account for the impaired humoral immune response found in Cr2(-/-) mice. The absence of complement receptors 1 and 2 (CR1, CR2) on B cells could affect their activation. Alternatively, impaired Ag trapping by follicular dendritic cells (FDC) could affect B ceil maturation into Ig-secreting or memory B cells. To compare the roles of CR1 and CR2 on B cells vs FDC in this abnormal response, bone marrow (BM) chimeric mice were generated and immunized with specific T-dependent Ags. The primary and secondary Ab response was measured. Cr2(+/+) animals reconstituted with a Cr2(-/-) BM generated a diminished but detectable humoral immune response compared with controls. When injected with preformed immune complexes (IC), these mice maintained follicular IC localization. Cr2(-/-) animals reconstituted with a Cr2(+/+) BM had an initial rise in the Ab titer, but were unable to maintain it as shown by a pronounced decrease in the IgG titer. This defect persisted during the secondary immune response. Follicular IC trapping was also impaired. Despite the abnormal Ab response, germinal center formation was retained in all of the chimeric animals. These experiments are the first to demonstrate an absolute requirement for CR1 and CR2 expression on FDC in the generation of a normal humoral immune response.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)5273-5279
Number of pages7
JournalJournal of Immunology
Volume160
Issue number11
StatePublished - Jun 1 1998

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Immunology and Allergy
  • Immunology

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Expression of complement receptors 1 and 2 on follicular dendritic cells is necessary for the generation of a strong antigen-specific IgG response'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this