Cell-cell interactions in synovitis - Interactions between T cells and B cells in rheumatoid arthritis

Citation
Cm. Weyand et al., Cell-cell interactions in synovitis - Interactions between T cells and B cells in rheumatoid arthritis, ARTHRITIS R, 2(6), 2000, pp. 457-463
Citations number
72
Categorie Soggetti
Rheumatology
Journal title
ARTHRITIS RESEARCH
ISSN journal
14659913 → ACNP
Volume
2
Issue
6
Year of publication
2000
Pages
457 - 463
Database
ISI
SICI code
1465-9913(2000)2:6<457:CIIS-I>2.0.ZU;2-Q
Abstract
In rheumatoid arthritis, T cells and B cells participate in the immune resp onses evolving in the synovial lesions. Interaction between T cells and B c ells is probably antigen specific because complex microstructures typical o f secondary lymphoid organs are generated. Differences between patients in forming follicles with germinal centers, T-cell-B-cell aggregates without g erminal center reactions, or loosely organized T-cell-B-cell infiltrates mi ght reflect the presence of different antigens or a heterogeneity in host r esponse patterns to immune injury. Tertiary lymphoid microstructures in the rheumatoid lesions can enhance the sensitivity of antigen recognition, opt imize the collaboration of immunoregulatory and effector cells, and support the interaction between the tissue site and the aberrant immune response. The molecular basis of lymphoid organogenesis studied in gene-targeted mice will provide clues to why the synovium is a preferred site for tertiary ly mphoid tissue. B cells have a critical role in lymphoid organogenesis. Thei r contribution to synovial inflammation extends beyond antibody secretion a nd includes the activation and regulation of effector T cells.