Regulatory Role of Peritoneal B Cells in EAE

Abstract

Abstract B cells play a dual role in the pathogenesis of autoimmune diseases. In experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE), an experimental model for multiple sclerosis, B cells contribute to disease progression, while their regulatory role predominates in the initial phases of disease development. Several studies have identified different subsets of regulatory B cells, mostly in the spleen, which are all sources of IL-10. However, peritoneal regulatory B cells are also important producers of IL-10, can migrate towards inflammatory stimuli, and could have an immunoregulatory function. As we have observed expansion of regulatory B cells in the peritoneum of resistant mice after EAE induction, herein we discuss the regulatory roles of B cells in EAE pathogenesis and the possible role of peritoneal regulatory B cells in resistance to EAE induction.