Abstract
In chimaeras constructed by transferring K-allotype distinct DNP-haemocyanin-primed thoracic duct lymphocytes (TDL) into irradiated (hind limb bone marrow shielded) recipients the activation of virgin (host allotype) B cells is often transient falling to negligible levels within 14 days (1). The lower affinity of antigen receptors on virgin B cells compared to memory B cells precludes their continued activation as antigen becomes limiting. However, as antibody levels rise antigen is re-localised into follicles in the form of immune complex (2,3). Recently it has been shown that virgin B cells after transfer do not migrate into follicular structures, in contrast to transferred TDL (4). This raises the possibility that virgin and memory B cell activation occurs at different sites. When the supply of antigen is high (soon after immunisation) both virgin and memory B cells are activated at extra-foilicular sites but as antigen levels fall and re-localisation onto follicular dendritic cells (FDC) occurs, only memory B cells gain access to the antigen supply.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.