Release of Antibodies and Cytokines from B Cells.

Autoreactive B cells play a critical role in rheumatoid arthritis. These cells differentiate into long-living memory B cells and autoantibody-producing plasma cells and also present autoantigens to T cells to amplify misdirected immune responses. The therapeutic benefit of B-cell-deleting therapies suggests that B cells are emerging as important factors in the pathogenesis of RA. Aiming at evaluation of the function of B cells, which are usually derived from peripheral blood of RA patients and healthy donors, it is possible to conduct a series of experiments, such as in vitro assessment of antibody production and BCR-mediated cytokine release. These techniques can also be applied for in vivo application.