Abstract
In B-cell development, expression of immunoglobulin heavy-chain variable-region (VH) gene repertoires is determined by genetic mechanisms that favor rearrangement of the most D-proximal genes, resulting in overutilization of the VH7183 gene family early in ontogeny and in differentiating B cells of the adult bone marrow. Maturation of the immune system is accompanied by a decreased expression of VH7183 genes in the peripheral immunocompetent B-cell pool of adult animals. By comparing VH gene family expression in the bone marrow (emergent) and peripheral (available and actual) B-cell repertoires of germ-free and conventionally raised BALB/c mice, we found that peripheral selection of VH gene family utilization does not occur in germ-free animals. Reconstitution of germ-free mice with normal serum immunoglobulins purified from syngeneic donors reestablishes selection of VH7183-expressing B cells. Our results indicate that preimmune B-cell repertoires are selected in normal animals by environmental antigens and serum immunoglobulins.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: 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.
