B cell follicles and antigen encounters of the third kind

Morphology of Immunomodulation in Breast Cancer Tumor Draining Lymph Nodes Depends on Stage and Intrinsic Subtype

Cancer research of immune-modulating mechanisms mainly addresses the role of tumor-infiltrating immune cells. Mechanisms modulating the adaptive immune system at the primary activation site - the draining lymph node (LN) - are less investigated. Here we present tumor-caused histomorphological changes in tumor draining LNs of breast cancer patients, dependent on the localization (sentinel LN vs. non-sentinel LN), the tumor size, the intrinsic subtype and nodal metastatic status. The quantitative morphological study was conducted in breast cancer patients with at least one sentinel LN and no neoadjuvant therapy. All LNs were annotated considering to their topographical location, stained for IgD/H&E, digitized and quantitatively analyzed. In 206 patients, 394 sentinels and 940 non-sentinel LNs were categorized, comprising 40758 follicles and 7074 germinal centers. Subtype specific immunomorphological patterns were detectable: Follicular density was higher in LNs of Her2 enriched hormone receptor positive and triple-negative breast cancers whereas hormone receptor positive breast cancers showed more macrophage infiltrations in the LN cortex. Follicles are rounder in metastatic LNs and non-sentinel LNs. The identified immunomorphological changes reflect different underlying immunomodulations taking place in the tumor-draining LNs and should therefore be considered as possible prognostic and predictive markers for LN metastasis and therapy associated immunomodulation.

Tuning of in vivo cognate B-T cell interactions by Intersectin 2 is required for effective anti-viral B cell immunity

Wiskott-Aldrich syndrome (WAS) is an immune pathology associated with mutations in WAS protein (WASp) or in WASp interacting protein (WIP). Together with the small GTPase Cdc42 and other effectors, these proteins participate in the remodelling of the actin network downstream of BCR engagement. Here we show that mice lacking the adaptor protein ITSN2, a G-nucleotide exchange factor (GEF) for Cdc42 that also interacts with WASp and WIP, exhibited increased mortality during primary infection, incomplete protection after Flu vaccination, reduced germinal centre formation and impaired antibody responses to vaccination. These defects were found, at least in part, to be intrinsic to the B cell compartment. In vivo, ITSN2 deficient B cells show a reduction in the expression of SLAM, CD84 or ICOSL that correlates with a diminished ability to form long term conjugates with T cells, to proliferate in vivo, and to differentiate into germinal centre cells. In conclusion, our study not only revealed a key role for ITSN2 as an important regulator of adaptive immune-response during vaccination and viral infection but it is also likely to contribute to a better understanding of human immune pathologies.

Tertiary Lymphoid Structures Among the World of Noncanonical Ectopic Lymphoid Organizations

Tertiary lymphoid structures (TLOs), also known as ectopic lymphoid structures, are associated with chronic infections and inflammatory diseases. Despite their association with pathology, these structures are actually a normal, albeit transient, component of the immune system and facilitate local immune responses that are meant to mitigate inflammation and resolve infection. Many of the mechanisms controlling the formation and function of tertiary lymphoid structures have been identified, in part by experimentally triggering their formation using defined stimuli under controlled conditions. Here, we introduce the experimental and pathological conditions in which tertiary lymphoid tissues are formed, describe the mechanisms linked to their formation, and discuss their functions in the context of both infection and inflammation.

Imaging the Interactions Between B Cells and Antigen-Presenting Cells

In vivo, B cells are often activated by antigens that are displayed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells (APCs). Binding of membrane-associated antigens to the B cell receptor (BCR) causes rapid cytoskeleton-dependent changes in the spatial organization of the BCR and other B cell membrane proteins, leading to the formation of an immune synapse. This process has been modeled using antigens attached to artificial planar lipid bilayers or to plasma membrane sheets. As a more physiological system for studying B cell-APC interactions, we have expressed model antigens in easily transfected adherent cell lines such as Cos-7 cells. The model antigens that we have used are a transmembrane form of a single-chain anti-Igκ antibody and a transmembrane form of hen egg lysozyme that is fused to a fluorescent protein. This has allowed us to study multiple aspects of B cell immune synapse formation including cytoskeletal reorganization, BCR microcluster coalescence, BCR-mediated antigen gathering, and BCR signaling. Here, we provide protocols for expressing these model antigens on the surface of Cos-7 cells, transfecting B cells with siRNAs or with plasmids encoding fluorescent proteins, using fixed cell and live cell fluorescence microscopy to image B cell-APC interactions, and quantifying APC-induced changes in BCR spatial organization and signaling.

Intravital Imaging of B Cell Responses in Lymph Nodes

Humoral immune responses depend on B cells encountering antigen (Ag) in lymph nodes (LNs) draining infection sites, getting activated, interacting with different cells, proliferating and differentiating into antibody (Ab)-secreting cells. Each of these events occurs in distinct LN sub-compartments, requiring the migration of B cells from niche to niche in a fast and tightly coordinated fashion. While some of the rules that characterize B cell behavior in secondary lymphoid organs have been elucidated at the population level, we have only limited knowledge of the precise dynamics of B cell interactions with different kinds of LN cells at the single-cell level. Here, we describe in detail an intravital microscopy technique that allows the analysis of B cell dynamic behavior in the popliteal lymph node of anesthetized mice at high spatial and temporal resolution. A detailed understanding of the spatiotemporal dynamics of B cells within secondary lymphoid organs may lead to novel, rational vaccine strategies aimed at inducing rapid and long-lived humoral immune responses.

In vivo imaging of adaptive immune responses to viruses

Viral infections represent a major threat for mankind. The adaptive immune system plays a key role in both viral clearance and disease pathogenesis, and, accordingly, understanding how lymphocytes interact with different viruses is critical to design more effective vaccination and therapeutic strategies. The recent advent of intravital microscopy has enabled the real-time visualization of the complex interplay between viruses and the ensuing adaptive immune response in living organisms. Here, we will review the most significant recent insights on antiviral adaptive immune responses obtained through intravital imaging. We will also discuss what challenges lie ahead and what we think are the most promising areas for future research.

Spontaneous germinal centers and autoimmunity

Germinal centers (GCs) are dynamic microenvironments that form in the secondary lymphoid organs and generate somatically mutated high-affinity antibodies necessary to establish an effective humoral immune response. Tight regulation of GC responses is critical for maintaining self-tolerance. GCs can arise in the absence of purposeful immunization or overt infection (called spontaneous GCs, Spt-GCs). In autoimmune-prone mice and patients with autoimmune disease, aberrant regulation of Spt-GCs is thought to promote the development of somatically mutated pathogenic autoantibodies and the subsequent development of autoimmunity. The mechanisms that control the formation of Spt-GCs and promote systemic autoimmune diseases remain an open question and the focus of ongoing studies. Here, we discuss the most current studies on the role of Spt-GCs in autoimmunity.

Dendritic cell and antigen dispersal landscapes regulate T cell immunity

Gerner et al. show that spatial compartmentalization in lymph nodes of DCs specialized for MHC I versus MHC II presentation determines the amount of antigen these cells capture after immunization and regulates the relative generation of CD4⁺ versus CD8⁺ T cell responses.

Dendritic cell (DC) subsets with biased capacity for CD4⁺ and CD8⁺ T cell activation are asymmetrically distributed in lymph nodes (LNs), but how this affects adaptive responses has not been extensively studied. Here we used quantitative imaging to examine the relationships among antigen dispersal, DC positioning, and T cell activation after protein immunization. Antigens rapidly drained into LNs and formed gradients extending from the lymphatic sinuses, with reduced abundance in the deep LN paracortex. Differential localization of DCs specialized for major histocompatibility complex I (MHC I) and MHC II presentation resulted in preferential activation of CD8⁺ and CD4⁺ T cells within distinct LN regions. Because MHC I–specialized DCs are positioned in regions with limited antigen delivery, modest reductions in antigen dose led to a substantially greater decline in CD8⁺ compared with CD4⁺ T cell activation, expansion, and clonal diversity. Thus, the collective action of antigen dispersal and DC positioning regulates the extent and quality of T cell immunity, with important implications for vaccine design.

A Novel Computational Model Predicts Key Regulators of Chemokine Gradient Formation in Lymph Nodes and Site-Specific Roles for CCL19 and ACKR4

The chemokine receptor CCR7 drives leukocyte migration into and within lymph nodes (LNs). It is activated by chemokines CCL19 and CCL21, which are scavenged by the atypical chemokine receptor ACKR4. CCR7-dependent navigation is determined by the distribution of extracellular CCL19 and CCL21, which form concentration gradients at specific microanatomical locations. The mechanisms underpinning the establishment and regulation of these gradients are poorly understood. In this article, we have incorporated multiple biochemical processes describing the CCL19–CCL21–CCR7–ACKR4 network into our model of LN fluid flow to establish a computational model to investigate intranodal chemokine gradients. Importantly, the model recapitulates CCL21 gradients observed experimentally in B cell follicles and interfollicular regions, building confidence in its ability to accurately predict intranodal chemokine distribution. Parameter variation analysis indicates that the directionality of these gradients is robust, but their magnitude is sensitive to these key parameters: chemokine production, diffusivity, matrix binding site availability, and CCR7 abundance. The model indicates that lymph flow shapes intranodal CCL21 gradients, and that CCL19 is functionally important at the boundary between B cell follicles and the T cell area. It also predicts that ACKR4 in LNs prevents CCL19/CCL21 accumulation in efferent lymph, but does not control intranodal gradients. Instead, it attributes the disrupted interfollicular CCL21 gradients observed in Ackr4-deficient LNs to ACKR4 loss upstream. Our novel approach has therefore generated new testable hypotheses and alternative interpretations of experimental data. Moreover, it acts as a framework to investigate gradients at other locations, including those that cannot be visualized experimentally or involve other chemokines.

Here, there and everywhere: T follicular helper cells on the move

T follicular helper (Tfh) cells have the important function of providing B-cell help for the induction of antigen-specific antibody production. As such, it is important to determine the factors that regulate the development, differentiation and function of Tfh cells. This review highlights some of the recent advances in our understanding of Tfh cell migration, Tfh cell memory and the origins and fate of circulating Tfh cells in the blood, that have been revealed from studies in humans and mice.

The Small Rho GTPase TC10 Modulates B Cell Immune Responses

Rho family GTPases regulate diverse cellular events, such as cell motility, polarity, and vesicle traffic. Although a wealth of data exists on the canonical Rho GTPases RhoA, Rac1, and Cdc42, several other family members remain poorly studied. In B cells, we recently demonstrated a critical role for Cdc42 in plasma cell differentiation. In this study, we focus on a close homolog of Cdc42, TC10 (also known as RhoQ), and investigate its physiological role in B cells. By generating a TC10-deficient mouse model, we show that despite reduced total B cell numbers, B cell development in these mice occurs normally through distinct developmental stages. Upon immunization, IgM levels were reduced and, upon viral infection, germinal center responses were defective in TC10-deficient mice. BCR signaling was mildly affected, whereas cell migration remained normal in TC10-deficient B cells. Furthermore, by generating a TC10/Cdc42 double knockout mouse model, we found that TC10 can compensate for the lack of Cdc42 in TLR-induced cell activation and proliferation, so the two proteins play partly redundant roles. Taken together, by combining in vivo and in vitro analysis using TC10-deficient mice, we define the poorly studied Rho GTPase TC10 as an immunomodulatory molecule playing a role in physiological B cell responses.

Regulation of Subunit-Specific Germinal Center B Cell Responses to the HIV-1 Envelope Glycoproteins by Antibody-Mediated Feedback

The regulation of germinal center (GC) B cell responses to single epitopes is well investigated. How monoclonal B cells are regulated within the polyclonal B cell response to protein antigens is less so. Here, we investigate the primary GC B cell response after injection of mice with HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins. We demonstrate that single GCs are seeded by a diverse number of B cell clones shortly after a single immunization and that the presence of Env-specific antibodies can inhibit the development of early GC B cells. Importantly, the suppression was dependent on the GC B cells and the infused antibodies to target the same subunit of the injected HIV-1 envelope glycoproteins. An affinity-dependent antibody feedback has previously been shown to regulate GC B cell development. Here, we propose that this antibody-based feedback acts on GC B cells only if they target the same or overlapping epitopes. This study provides important basic information of GC B cell regulation, and for future vaccine designs with aim to elicit neutralizing antibodies against HIV-1.

EBI2 expression in B lymphocytes is controlled by the Epstein-Barr virus transcription factor, BRRF1 (Na), during viral infection

Epstein-Barr virus-induced gene 2 (EBI2) is an important chemotactic receptor that is involved in proper B-cell T-cell interactions. Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) has been shown to upregulate this gene upon infection of cell lines, but the timing and mechanism of this upregulation, as well as its importance to EBV infection, remain unknown. This work investigated EBV's manipulation of EBI2 expression of primary naive B cells. EBV infection induces EBI2 expression resulting in elevated levels of EBI2 after 24 h until 7 days post-infection, followed by a dramatic decline (P=0.027). Increased EBI2 expression was not found in non-specifically stimulated B cells or when irradiated virus was used. The EBV lytic gene BRRF1 exhibited a similar expression pattern to EBI2 (R2=0.4622). BRRF1-deficient EBV could not induce EBI2. However, B cells transduced with BRRF1 showed elevated expression of EBI2 (P=0.042), a result that was not seen with transduction of a different EBV lytic transfection factor, BRLF1. Based on these results, we conclude that EBI2 expression is directly influenced by EBV infection and that BRRF1 is necessary and sufficient for EBI2 upregulation during infection.

Overexpression of Interleukin-7 Extends the Humoral Immune Response Induced by Rabies Vaccination

Rabies continues to present a public health threat in most countries of the world. The most efficient way to prevent and control rabies is to implement vaccination programs for domestic animals. However, traditional inactivated vaccines used in animals are costly and have relatively low efficiency, which impedes their extensive use in developing countries. There is, therefore, an urgent need to develop single-dose and long-lasting rabies vaccines. However, little information is available regarding the mechanisms underlying immunological memory, which can broaden humoral responses following rabies vaccination. In this study, a recombinant rabies virus (RABV) that expressed murine interleukin-7 (IL-7), referred to here as rLBNSE-IL-7, was constructed, and its effectiveness was evaluated in a mouse model. rLBNSE-IL-7 induced higher rates of T follicular helper (Tfh) cells and germinal center (GC) B cells from draining lymph nodes (LNs) than the parent virus rLBNSE. Interestingly, rLBNSE-IL-7 improved the percentages of long-lived memory B cells (Bmem) in the draining LNs and plasma cells (PCs) in the bone marrow (BM) for up to 360 days postimmunization (dpi). As a result of the presence of the long-lived PCs, it also generated prolonged virus-neutralizing antibodies (VNAs), resulting in better protection against a lethal challenge than that seen with rLBNSE. Moreover, consistent with the increased numbers of Bmem and PCs after a boost with rLBNSE, rLBNSE-IL-7-immunized mice promptly produced a more potent secondary anti-RABV neutralizing antibody response than rLBNSE-immunized mice. Overall, our data suggest that overexpressing IL-7 improved the induction of long-lasting primary and secondary antibody responses post-RABV immunization.IMPORTANCE Extending humoral immune responses using adjuvants is an important method to develop long-lasting and efficient vaccines against rabies. However, little information is currently available regarding prolonged immunological memory post-RABV vaccination. In this study, a novel rabies vaccine that expressed murine IL-7 was developed. This vaccine enhanced the numbers of Tfh cells and the GC responses, resulting in upregulated quantities of Bmem and PCs. Moreover, we found that the long-lived PCs that were elicited by the IL-7-expressing recombinant virus (rLBNSE-IL-7) were able to sustain VNA levels much longer than those elicited by the parent rLBNSE virus. Upon reexposure to the pathogen, the longevous Bmem, which maintained higher numbers for up to 360 dpi with rLBNSE-IL-7 compared to rLBNSE, could differentiate into antibody-secreting cells, resulting in rapid and potent secondary production of VNAs. These results suggest that the expression of IL-7 is beneficial for induction of potent and long-lasting humoral immune responses.

The Rap1-cofilin-1 pathway coordinates actin reorganization and MTOC polarization at the B cell immune synapse

B cells that bind antigens displayed on antigen-presenting cells (APCs) form an immune synapse, a polarized cellular structure that optimizes the dual functions of the B cell receptor (BCR), signal transduction and antigen internalization. Immune synapse formation involves polarization of the microtubule-organizing center (MTOC) towards the APC. We now show that BCR-induced MTOC polarization requires the Rap1 GTPase (which has two isoforms, Rap1a and Rap1b), an evolutionarily conserved regulator of cell polarity, as well as cofilin-1, an actin-severing protein that is regulated by Rap1. MTOC reorientation towards the antigen contact site correlated strongly with cofilin-1-dependent actin reorganization and cell spreading. We also show that BCR-induced MTOC polarization requires the dynein motor protein as well as IQGAP1, a scaffolding protein that can link the actin and microtubule cytoskeletons. At the periphery of the immune synapse, IQGAP1 associates closely with F-actin structures and with the microtubule plus-end-binding protein CLIP-170 (also known as CLIP1). Moreover, the accumulation of IQGAP1 at the antigen contact site depends on F-actin reorganization that is controlled by Rap1 and cofilin-1. Thus the Rap1-cofilin-1 pathway coordinates actin and microtubule organization at the immune synapse.

Cocapture of cognate and bystander antigens can activate autoreactive B cells

Autoantibodies against myelin oligodendrocyte glycoprotein (MOG) are associated with autoimmune central nervous system diseases like acute disseminated encephalomyelitis (ADEM). For ADEM, it is speculated that a preceding infection is the trigger of the autoimmune response, but the mechanism connecting the infection to the production of MOG antibodies remains a mystery. We reasoned that the ability of B cells to capture cognate antigen from cell membranes, along with small quantities of coexpressed "bystander" antigens, might enable B-cell escape from tolerance. We tested this hypothesis using influenza hemagglutinin as a model viral antigen and transgenic, MOG-specific B cells. Using flow cytometry and live and fixed cell microscopy, we show that MOG-specific B cells take up large amounts of MOG from cell membranes. Uptake of the antigen from the membrane leads to a strong activation of the capturing B cell. When influenza hemagglutinin is also present in the membrane of the target cell, it can be cocaptured with MOG by MOG-specific B cells via the B-cell receptor. Hemagglutinin and MOG are both presented to T cells, which in turn are activated and proliferate. As a consequence, MOG-specific B cells get help from hemagglutinin-specific T cells to produce anti-MOG antibodies. In vivo, the transfer of MOG-specific B cells into recipient mice after the cocapture of MOG and hemagglutinin leads to the production of class-switched anti-MOG antibodies, dependent on the presence of hemagglutinin-specific T cells. This mechanism offers a link between infection and autoimmunity.

Follicular Dendritic Cell Isolation and Loading of Immune Complexes

Follicular dendritic cells (FDCs) are stromal cells that are centrally located within B cell follicles of lymph nodes and other lymphoid organs such as the spleen. Due to their relative low abundance and difficulty to isolate, FDCs are still largely an enigma. Here we describe how to isolate FDCs for ex vivo cell culture, sorting by flow cytometry and how to load them in vivo or in vitro with immune complexes.

Plant viral nanoparticles-based HER2 vaccine: Immune response influenced by differential transport, localization and cellular interactions of particulate carriers

Cancer vaccines are designed to elicit an endogenous adaptive immune response that can successfully recognize and eliminate residual or recurring tumors. Such approaches can potentially overcome shortcomings of passive immunotherapies by generating long-lived therapeutic effects and immune memory while limiting systemic toxicities. A critical determinant of vaccine efficacy is efficient transport and delivery of tumor-associated antigens to professional antigen presenting cells (APCs). Plant viral nanoparticles (VNPs) with natural tropism for APCs and a high payload carrying capacity may be particularly effective vaccine carriers. The applicability of VNP platform technologies is governed by stringent structure-function relationships. We compare two distinct VNP platforms: icosahedral cowpea mosaic virus (CPMV) and filamentous potato virus X (PVX). Specifically, we evaluate in vivo capabilities of engineered VNPs delivering human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 (HER2) epitopes for therapy and prophylaxis of HER2⁺ malignancies. Our results corroborate the structure-function relationship where icosahedral CPMV particles showed significantly enhanced lymph node transport and retention, and greater uptake by/activation of APCs compared to filamentous PVX particles. These enhanced immune cell interactions and transport properties resulted in elevated HER2-specific antibody titers raised by CPMV- vs. PVX-based peptide vaccine. The 'synthetic virology' field is rapidly expanding with numerous platforms undergoing development and preclinical testing; our studies highlight the need for systematic studies to define rules guiding the design and rational choice of platform, in the context of peptide-vaccine display technologies.

Antigen-Presenting Cells and Antigen Presentation in Tertiary Lymphoid Organs

Tertiary lymphoid organs (TLOs) form in territorialized niches of peripheral tissues characterized by the presence of antigens; however, little is known about mechanism(s) of antigen handling by ectopic lymphoid structures. In this mini review, we will discuss the role of antigen-presenting cells and mechanisms of antigen presentation in TLOs, summarizing what is currently known about this facet of the formation and function of these tissues as well as identifying questions yet to be addressed.

Germinal Center B Cell Dynamics

Germinal centers (GCs) are the site of antibody diversification and affinity maturation and as such are vitally important for humoral immunity. The study of GC biology has undergone a renaissance in the past 10 years, with a succession of findings that have transformed our understanding of the cellular dynamics of affinity maturation. In this review, we discuss recent developments in the field, with special emphasis on how GC cellular and clonal dynamics shape antibody affinity and diversity during the immune response.

Clathrin light chains' role in selective endocytosis influences antibody isotype switching

Clathrin, a cytosolic protein composed of heavy and light chain subunits, assembles into a vesicle coat, controlling receptor-mediated endocytosis. To establish clathrin light chain (CLC) function in vivo, we engineered mice lacking CLCa, the major CLC isoform in B lymphocytes, generating animals with CLC-deficient B cells. In CLCa-null mice, the germinal centers have fewer B cells, and they are enriched for IgA-producing cells. This enhanced switch to IgA production in the absence of CLCa was attributable to increased transforming growth factor β receptor 2 (TGFβR2) signaling resulting from defective endocytosis. Internalization of C-X-C chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4), but not CXCR5, was affected in CLCa-null B cells, and CLC depletion from cell lines affected endocytosis of the δ-opioid receptor, but not the β2-adrenergic receptor, defining a role for CLCs in the uptake of a subset of signaling receptors. This instance of clathrin subunit deletion in vertebrates demonstrates that CLCs contribute to clathrin's role in vivo by influencing cargo selectivity, a function previously assigned exclusively to adaptor molecules.

Migratory and adhesive cues controlling innate-like lymphocyte surveillance of the pathogen-exposed surface of the lymph node

Lymph nodes (LNs) contain innate-like lymphocytes that survey the subcapsular sinus (SCS) and associated macrophages for pathogen entry. The factors promoting this surveillance behavior have not been defined. Here, we report that IL7R^hiCcr6⁺ lymphocytes in mouse LNs rapidly produce IL17 upon bacterial and fungal challenge. We show that these innate-like lymphocytes are mostly LN resident. Ccr6 is required for their accumulation near the SCS and for efficient IL17 induction. Migration into the SCS intrinsically requires S1pr1, whereas movement from the sinus into the parenchyma involves the integrin LFA1 and its ligand ICAM1. CD169, a sialic acid-binding lectin, helps retain the cells within the sinus, preventing their loss in lymph flow. These findings establish a role for Ccr6 in augmenting innate-like lymphocyte responses to lymph-borne pathogens, and they define requirements for cell movement between parenchyma and SCS in what we speculate is a program of immune surveillance that helps achieve LN barrier immunity.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.18156.001

The lymphatic system is a network of vessels and a vital part of our immune system. Amongst other things, the lymphatic system carries microbes that have entered the body – for example via to a cut or mosquito bite – to small, oval-shaped organs called lymph nodes. The lymph nodes are packed with immune cells that can be activated to help fight off infections, however certain microbes actually replicate inside the lymph nodes themselves.

Lymph nodes protect themselves from these infections by having some pre-armed immune cells that are ready to respond rapidly as soon as an invading microbe is detected. These cells, referred to as innate-like lymphocytes, position themselves at the exposed surfaces of the lymph node – the locations where microbes are most likely to enter the organ. However, it was not known which cues caused these immune cells to assemble and remain at these locations.

Zhang et al. now reveal that a signaling molecule called CCL20 attracts the innate-like lymphocytes to the lymph node’s exposed surfaces, while a protein known as CD169 helps to securely attach the innate-like lymphocytes in place. Further experiments then confirmed that positioning the innate-like lymphocytes at this location made mice more able to fight off the disease-causing bacterium Staphyloccus aureus.

Unexpectedly, Zhang et al. also found that innate-like lymphocytes can move from the surfaces of lymph node through to the underlying tissue. This unusual migratory behavior might allow the lymphocytes to search a larger area for the infectious microbes, though further studies are needed to test this hypothesis. Future studies are also likely to focus on elucidating how the innate-like lymphocytes recognize different types of invaders, and how their activity keeps the lymph nodes healthy.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.18156.002

Emergence and Evolution of Secondary Lymphoid Organs

For effective adaptive immunity to foreign antigens (Ag), secondary lymphoid organs (SLO) provide the confined environment in which Ag-restricted lymphocytes, with very low precursor frequencies, interact with Ag on Ag-presenting cells (APC). The spleen is the primordial SLO, arising in conjunction with adaptive immunity in early jawed vertebrates. The spleen, especially the spleen's lymphoid compartment, the white pulp (WP), has undergone numerous modifications over evolutionary time. We describe the progressive advancement of splenic WP complexity, which evolved in parallel with the increasing functionality of adaptive immunity. The Ag-presenting function of follicular dendritic cells (FDC) also likely emerged at the inception of adaptive immunity, and we propose that a single type of hematopoietically derived APC displayed Ag to both T and B cells. A dedicated FDC, derived from a vascular precursor, is a recent evolutionary innovation that likely permitted the robust affinity maturation found in mammals.

IgE-mediated enhancement of CD4(+) T cell responses requires antigen presentation by CD8α(-) conventional dendritic cells

IgE, forming an immune complex with small proteins, can enhance the specific antibody and CD4(+) T cell responses in vivo. The effects require the presence of CD23 (Fcε-receptor II)(+) B cells, which capture IgE-complexed antigens (Ag) in the circulation and transport them to splenic B cell follicles. In addition, also CD11c(+) cells, which do not express CD23, are required for IgE-mediated enhancement of T cell responses. This suggests that some type of dendritic cell obtains IgE-Ag complexes from B cells and presents antigenic peptides to T cells. To elucidate the nature of this dendritic cell, mice were immunized with ovalbumin (OVA)-specific IgE and OVA, and different populations of CD11c(+) cells, obtained from the spleens four hours after immunization, were tested for their ability to present OVA. CD8α(-) conventional dendritic cells (cDCs) were much more efficient in inducing specific CD4(+) T cell proliferation ex vivo than were CD8α(+) cDCs or plasmacytoid dendritic cells. Thus, IgE-Ag complexes administered intravenously are rapidly transported to the spleen by recirculating B cells where they are delivered to CD8α(-) cDCs which induce proliferation of CD4(+) T cells.

The Cellular Bases of Antibody Responses during Dengue Virus Infection

Dengue virus (DENV) is one of the most significant human viral pathogens transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause from an asymptomatic disease to mild undifferentiated fever, classical dengue, and severe dengue. Neutralizing memory antibody (Ab) responses are one of the most important mechanisms that counteract reinfections and are therefore the main aim of vaccination. However, it has also been proposed that in dengue, some of these class-switched (IgG) memory Abs might worsen the disease. Although these memory Abs derive from B cells by T-cell-dependent processes, we know rather little about the (acute, chronic, or memory) B cell responses and the complex cellular mechanisms generating these Abs during DENV infections. This review aims to provide an updated and comprehensive perspective of the B cell responses during DENV infection, starting since the very early events such as the cutaneous DENV entrance and the arrival into draining lymph nodes, to the putative B cell activation, proliferation, and germinal centers (GCs) formation (the source of affinity-matured class-switched memory Abs), till the outcome of GC reactions such as the generation of plasmablasts, Ab-secreting plasma cells, and memory B cells. We discuss topics very poorly explored such as the possibility of B cell infection by DENV or even activation-induced B cell death. The current information about the nature of the Ab responses to DENV is also illustrated.

Involvement of B cells in non-infectious uveitis

Non-infectious uveitis-or intraocular inflammatory disease-causes substantial visual morbidity and reduced quality of life amongst affected individuals. To date, research of pathogenic mechanisms has largely been focused on processes involving T lymphocyte and/or myeloid leukocyte populations. Involvement of B lymphocytes has received relatively little attention. In contrast, B-cell pathobiology is a major field within general immunological research, and large clinical trials have showed that treatments targeting B cells are highly effective for multiple systemic inflammatory diseases. B cells, including the terminally differentiated plasma cell that produces antibody, are found in the human eye in different forms of non-infectious uveitis; in some cases, these cells outnumber other leukocyte subsets. Recent case reports and small case series suggest that B-cell blockade may be therapeutic for patients with non-infectious uveitis. As well as secretion of antibody, B cells may promote intraocular inflammation by presentation of antigen to T cells, production of multiple inflammatory cytokines and support of T-cell survival. B cells may also perform various immunomodulatory activities within the eye. This translational review summarizes the evidence for B-cell involvement in non-infectious uveitis, and considers the potential contributions of B cells to the development and control of the disease. Manipulations of B cells and/or their products are promising new approaches to the treatment of non-infectious uveitis.

In vitro reconstitution of B cell receptor-antigen interactions to evaluate potential vaccine candidates

Predicting immune responses before vaccination is challenging because of the complexity of the governing parameters. Nevertheless, recent work has shown that B cell receptor (BCR)-antigen engagement in vitro can prove a powerful means of informing the design of antibody-based vaccines. We have developed this principle into a two-phased immunogen evaluation pipeline to rank-order vaccine candidates. In phase 1, recombinant antigens are screened for reactivity to the germline precursors that produce the antibody responses of interest. To both mimic the architecture of initial antigen engagement and facilitate rapid immunogen screening, these antibodies are expressed as membrane-anchored IgM (mIgM) in 293F indicator cells. In phase 2, the binding hits are multimerized by nanoparticle or proteoliposome display, and they are evaluated for BCR triggering in an engineered B cell line displaying the IgM sequences of interest. Key developments that complement existing methodology in this area include the following: (i) introduction of a high-throughput screening step before evaluation of more time-intensive BCR-triggering analyses; (ii) generalizable multivalent antigen-display platforms needed for BCR activation; and (iii) engineered use of a human B cell line that does not display endogenous antibody, but only ectopically expressed BCR sequences of interest. Through this pipeline, the capacity to initiate favorable antibody responses is evaluated. The entire protocol can be completed within 2.5 months.

General Strategies in Inflammasome Biology

The complementary actions of the innate and adaptive immune systems often provide effective host defense against microbial pathogens and harmful environmental agents. Germline-encoded pattern recognition receptors (PRRs) endow the innate immune system with the ability to detect and mount a rapid response against a given threat. Members of several intracellular PRR families, including the nucleotide-binding domain and leucine-rich repeat containing receptors (NLRs), the AIM2-like receptors (ALRs), and the tripartite motif-containing (TRIM) protein Pyrin/TRIM20, nucleate the formation of inflammasomes. These cytosolic scaffolds serve to recruit and oligomerize the cysteine protease caspase-1 in filaments that promote its proximity-induced autoactivation. This oligomerization occurs either directly or indirectly through intervention of the bipartite adaptor protein ASC, apoptosis-associated speck-like protein containing a caspase recruitment domain (CARD), which is needed for the domain interaction. Caspase-1 cleaves the precursors of the inflammatory cytokines interleukin (IL)-1β and IL-18 and triggers their release into the extracellular space, where they act on effector cells to promote both local and systemic immune responses. Additionally, inflammasome activation gives rise to a lytic mode of cell death, named pyroptosis, which is thought to contribute to initial host defense against infection by eliminating replication niches of intracellular pathogens and exposing them to the immune system. Inflammasome-induced host defense responses are the subject of intense investigation, and understanding their physiological roles during infection and the regulatory circuits that are involved is becoming increasingly detailed. Here, we discuss current understanding of the activation mechanisms and biological outcomes of inflammasome activation.

PI3 Kinase and FOXO1 Transcription Factor Activity Differentially Control B Cells in the Germinal Center Light and Dark Zones

Phosphatidylinositol 3' OH kinase (PI3K) signaling and FOXO transcription factors play opposing roles at several B cell developmental stages. We show here abundant nuclear FOXO1 expression in the proliferative compartment of the germinal center (GC), its dark zone (DZ), and PI3K activity, downregulating FOXO1, in the light zone (LZ), where cells are selected for further differentiation. In the LZ, however, FOXO1 was expressed in a fraction of cells destined for DZ reentry. Upon FOXO1 ablation or induction of PI3K activity, GCs lost their DZ, owing at least partly to downregulation of the chemokine receptor CXCR4. Although this prevented proper cyclic selection of cells in GCs, somatic hypermutation and proliferation were maintained. Class switch recombination was partly lost due to a failure of switch region targeting by activation-induced deaminase (AID).

Piracy on the molecular level: human herpesviruses manipulate cellular chemotaxis

Cellular chemotaxis is important to tissue homeostasis and proper development. Human herpesvirus species influence cellular chemotaxis by regulating cellular chemokines and chemokine receptors. Herpesviruses also express various viral chemokines and chemokine receptors during infection. These changes to chemokine concentrations and receptor availability assist in the pathogenesis of herpesviruses and contribute to a variety of diseases and malignancies. By interfering with the positioning of host cells during herpesvirus infection, viral spread is assisted, latency can be established and the immune system is prevented from eradicating viral infection.

Rapid activation and hepatic recruitment of innate-like regulatory B cells after invariant NKT cell stimulation in mice

BACKGROUND & AIMS

Invariant natural killer T (iNKT) cells are present within the liver and have been implicated in the development of many liver diseases. Upon activation by glycolipid ligands (including α-galactosylceramide; αGalCer), hepatic iNKT cells produce numerous cytokines and recruit both pro-inflammatory and regulatory immune cells. However, the involvement of B cells in this process is poorly defined.

METHODS

Wild-type (male, C57BL/6), B cell deficient, or B cell depleted mice were injected with αGalCer or vehicle, hepatic B cell phenotype and liver injury was subsequently determined.

RESULTS

iNKT cell activation resulted in liver injury and the rapid activation and hepatic recruitment of B cells (mainly innate-like B1 and MZ-like B cells) from the spleen and peritoneal cavity. B cells recruited to the liver produce IL-10 and TGFβ, and express cell surface CD73 (ectoenzyme which generates adenosine). B cell deficient mice developed augmented αGalCer-induced hepatitis, enhanced neutrophil recruitment and striking alterations in the hepatic cytokine milieu. αGalCer-induced hepatitis was unaltered in IL-10(-/-) mice, or after TGFβ neutralization, but was significantly worsened in mice treated with a CD73 inhibitor.

CONCLUSIONS

iNKT cell stimulation recruits innate-like regulatory B cells to the liver which suppress hepatic inflammation through IL-10 and TGFβ1 independent mechanisms, but involve CD73 activity. These findings highlight an important inflammation suppressing role for B cells at early time points during the development of an innate immune response within the liver, and represent a potential therapeutic target for the treatment of liver disease.

Modes of Antigen Presentation by Lymph Node Stromal Cells and Their Immunological Implications

Antigen presentation is no longer the exclusive domain of cells of hematopoietic origin. Recent works have demonstrated that lymph node stromal cell (LNSC) populations, such as fibroblastic reticular cells, lymphatic and blood endothelial cells, not only provide a scaffold for lymphocyte interactions but also exhibit active immunomodulatory roles that are critical to mounting and resolving effective immune responses. Importantly, LNSCs possess the ability to present antigens and establish antigen-specific interactions with T cells. One example is the expression of peripheral tissue antigens, which are presented on major histocompatibility complex (MHC)-I molecules with tolerogenic consequences on T cells. Additionally, exogenous antigens, including self and tumor antigens, can be processed and presented on MHC-I complexes, which result in dysfunctional activation of antigen-specific CD8⁺ T cells. While MHC-I is widely expressed on cells of both hematopoietic and non-hematopoietic origins, antigen presentation via MHC-II is more precisely regulated. Nevertheless, LNSCs are capable of endogenously expressing, or alternatively, acquiring MHC-II molecules. Transfer of antigen between LNSC and dendritic cells in both directions has been recently suggested to promote tolerogenic roles of LNSCs on the CD4⁺ T cell compartment. Thus, antigen presentation by LNSCs is thought to be a mechanism that promotes the maintenance of peripheral tolerance as well as generates a pool of diverse antigen-experienced T cells for protective immunity. This review aims to integrate the current and emerging literature to highlight the importance of LNSCs in immune responses, and emphasize their role in antigen trafficking, retention, and presentation.

In vivo imaging and tracking of host-microbiota interactions via metabolic labeling of gut anaerobic bacteria

The intestine is densely populated by anaerobic commensal bacteria. These microorganisms shape immune system development, but understanding of host-commensal interactions is hampered by a lack of tools for studying the anaerobic intestinal environment. We applied metabolic oligosaccharide engineering and bioorthogonal click chemistry to label various commensal anaerobes, including Bacteroides fragilis, a common and immunologically important commensal. We studied the dissemination of B. fragilis after acute peritonitis and characterized the interactions of the intact microbe and its polysaccharide components in myeloid and B cell lineages. We were able to assess the distribution and colonization of labeled B. fragilis along the intestine, as well as niche competition after coadministration of multiple species of the microbiota. We also fluorescently labeled nine additional commensals (eight anaerobic and one microaerophilic) from three phyla common in the gut--Bacteroidetes, Firmicutes and Proteobacteria--as well as one aerobic pathogen (Staphylococcus aureus). This strategy permits visualization of the anaerobic microbial niche by various methods, including intravital two-photon microscopy and non-invasive whole-body imaging, and can be used to study microbial colonization and host-microbe interactions in real time.

The HIV-1 envelope protein gp120 is captured and displayed for B cell recognition by SIGN-R1(+) lymph node macrophages

The HIV-1 envelope protein gp120 is both the target of neutralizing antibodies and a major focus of vaccine efforts; however how it is delivered to B cells to elicit an antibody response is unknown. Here, we show that following local gp120 injection lymph node (LN) SIGN-R1⁺ sinus macrophages located in interfollicular pockets and underlying SIGN-R1⁺ macrophages form a cellular network that rapidly captures gp120 from the afferent lymph. In contrast, two other antigens, phycoerythrin and hen egg lysozyme, were not captured by these cells. Intravital imaging of mouse LNs revealed persistent, but transient interactions between gp120 bearing interfollicular network cells and both trafficking and LN follicle resident gp120 specific B cells. The gp120 specific, but not the control B cells repetitively extracted gp120 from the network cells. Our findings reveal a specialized LN antigen delivery system poised to deliver gp120 and likely other pathogen derived glycoproteins to B cells.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.06467.001

The human immune system contains many different cell types, which play specific roles in defending the body from invading pathogens, such as bacteria and viruses. For example, macrophages engulf and digest foreign material, whereas specialized B cells termed plasma cells produce molecules called antibodies that help to destroy specific pathogens. However, specific antibodies are only produced if naive B cells have already encountered the pathogen or its surface proteins.

Attempts to improve how the immune system responds to the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV-1) have failed to control and prevent infection. One of the main components of many prospective HIV-1 vaccines is a protein called gp120, which is located on the surface of the virus. Specific B cells recognize this protein and can develop into plasma cells that produce antibodies against HIV-1. However, little is known about how these specific B cells initially get exposed to gp120.

Park et al. injected gp120 into mice, and used sophisticated microscopy to track its movement through the animal. This revealed that gp120 is rapidly transported to nearby lymph nodes—organs that are spread throughout the body, and play an important role in maintaining the immune response. Specialized macrophages can then capture and deliver gp120 to other macrophages in the lymph node.

These specialized macrophages serve as a gp120 reservoir and are located in part of the lymph node that is a bit like a traffic hub, in that other immune cells constantly pass through it. As such, B cells that specifically recognize gp120 have a high likelihood of encountering these gp120-bearing macrophages, thereby allowing the specific B cells to extract gp120, develop into plasma cells, and produce HIV-1 specific antibodies. Manipulating this macrophage network may help to optimize the antibody responses to gp120 and so, in the future, could provide a way of treating or preventing HIV-1 infections.

DOI:http://dx.doi.org/10.7554/eLife.06467.002

Phagocytosis: receptors, signal integration, and the cytoskeleton

Phagocytosis is a remarkably complex and versatile process: it contributes to innate immunity through the ingestion and elimination of pathogens, while also being central to tissue homeostasis and remodeling by clearing effete cells. The ability of phagocytes to perform such diverse functions rests, in large part, on their vast repertoire of receptors. In this review, we address the various receptor types, their mobility in the plane of the membrane, and two modes of receptor crosstalk: priming and synergy. A major section is devoted to the actin cytoskeleton, which not only governs receptor mobility and clustering but also is instrumental in particle engulfment. Four stages of the actin remodeling process are identified and discussed: (i) the 'resting' stage that precedes receptor engagement, (ii) the disruption of the cortical actin prior to formation of the phagocytic cup, (iii) the actin polymerization that propels pseudopod extension, and (iv) the termination of polymerization and removal of preassembled actin that are required for focal delivery of endomembranes and phagosomal sealing. These topics are viewed in the larger context of the differentiation and polarization of the phagocytic cells.

Chemokine-guided cell positioning in the lymph node orchestrates the generation of adaptive immune responses

The generation of adaptive immune responses occurs in the lymph node (LN) and requires that lymphocytes locate and interact with cognate antigen-bearing dendritic cells. This process requires the coordinated movement of both innate and adaptive immune cells, and is orchestrated by the chemokine family of chemotactic cytokines. Upon initiation of inflammation, the LN undergoes dramatic changes that include the marked induction of specific chemokines in distinct regions of the reactive LN. These chemokine rich domains establish LN niches that facilitate the differentiation of CD4+ T cells into effector cell subsets and the rapid activation of memory CD8+ T cells. This review will focus on recent advances highlighting the importance of LN chemokines for shaping adaptive immune responses by controlling immune cell migration, positioning, and interactions in the reactive LN.

CD11c-Expressing B Cells Are Located at the T Cell/B Cell Border in Spleen and Are Potent APCs

In addition to the secretion of Ag-specific Abs, B cells may play an important role in the generation of immune responses by efficiently presenting Ag to T cells. We and other investigators recently described a subpopulation of CD11c(+) B cells (Age/autoimmune-associated B cells [ABCs]) that appear with age, during virus infections, and at the onset of some autoimmune diseases and participate in autoimmune responses by secreting autoantibodies. In this study, we assessed the ability of these cells to present Ag and activate Ag-specific T cells. We demonstrated that ABCs present Ag to T cells, in vitro and in vivo, better than do follicular B cells (FO cells). Our data indicate that ABCs express higher levels of the chemokine receptor CCR7, have higher responsiveness to CCL21 and CCL19 than do FO cells, and are localized at the T/B cell border in spleen. Using multiphoton microscopy, we show that, in vivo, CD11c(+) B cells form significantly more stable interactions with T cells than do FO cells. Together, these data identify a previously undescribed role for ABCs as potent APCs and suggest another potential mechanism by which these cells can influence immune responses and/or the development of autoimmunity.

Toll-like receptor ligands sensitize B-cell receptor signalling by reducing actin-dependent spatial confinement of the receptor

Integrating signals from multiple receptors allows cells to interpret the physiological context in which a signal is received. Here we describe a mechanism for receptor crosstalk in which receptor-induced increases in actin dynamics lower the threshold for signalling by another receptor. We show that the Toll-like receptor ligands lipopolysaccharide and CpG DNA, which are conserved microbial molecules, enhance signalling by the B-cell antigen receptor (BCR) by activating the actin-severing protein cofilin. Single-particle tracking reveals that increased severing of actin filaments reduces the spatial confinement of the BCR within the plasma membrane and increases BCR mobility. This allows more frequent collisions between BCRs and greater signalling in response to low densities of membrane-bound antigen. These findings implicate actin dynamics as a means of tuning receptor signalling and as a mechanism by which B cells distinguish inert antigens from those that are accompanied by indicators of microbial infection.

Microbial pathogens can activate both innate and adaptive receptors, and integration of these signals may enhance the sensitivity of the immune response. Freeman et al. show that innate microbial cues sensitize B cells to antigen by increasing actin dynamics and reducing the actin-dependent confinement of the B-cell receptor.

Vaccine adjuvant MF59 promotes retention of unprocessed antigen in lymph node macrophage compartments and follicular dendritic cells

Ag retention within lymph nodes (LNs) upon vaccination is critical for the development of adaptive immune responses, because it facilitates the encounter of the Ag with cognate lymphocytes. During a secondary exposure of the immune system to an Ag, immune complexes (ICs) that contain the unprocessed Ag are captured by subcapsular sinus macrophages and are transferred onto follicular dendritic cells, where they persist for weeks, facilitating Ag presentation to cognate memory B cells. The impact of adjuvants on Ag retention within the draining LNs is unknown. In this article, we provide the first evidence, to our knowledge, that the oil-in-water emulsion adjuvant MF59 localizes in subcapsular sinus and medullary macrophage compartments of mouse draining LNs, where it persists for at least 2 wk. In addition, we demonstrate that MF59 promotes accumulation of the unprocessed Ag within these LN compartments and facilitates the consequent deposition of the IC-trapped Ag onto activated follicular dendritic cells. These findings correlate with the ability of MF59 to boost germinal center generation and Ag-specific Ab titers. Our data suggest that the adjuvant effect of MF59 is, at least in part, due to an enhancement of IC-bound Ag retention within the LN and offer insights to improve the efficacy of new vaccine adjuvants.

Molecular Mechanisms of B Cell Antigen Gathering and Endocytosis

Generation of high-affinity, protective antibodies requires B cell receptor (BCR) signaling, as well as antigen internalization and presentation to helper T cells. B cell antigen internalization is initiated by antigen capture, either from solution or from immune synapses formed on the surface of antigen-presenting cells, and proceeds via clathrin-dependent endocytosis and intracellular routing to late endosomes. Although the components of this pathway are still being discovered, it has become clear that antigen internalization is actively regulated by BCR signaling at multiple steps and, vice versa, that localization of the BCR along the endocytic pathway modulates signaling. Accordingly, defects in BCR internalization or trafficking contribute to enhanced B cell activation in models of autoimmune diseases and in B cell lymphomas. In this review, we discuss how BCR signaling complexes regulate each of the steps of this endocytic process and why defects along this pathway manifest as hyperactive B cell responses in vivo.

Lymph node but not intradermal injection site macrophages are critical for germinal center formation and antibody responses to rabies vaccination

Replication-deficient rabies virus (RABV)-based vaccines induce rapid and potent antibody responses via T cell-independent and T cell-dependent mechanisms. To further investigate early events in vaccine-induced antibody responses against RABV infections, we studied the role of macrophages as mediators of RABV-based vaccine immunogenicity. In this report, we show that a recombinant matrix gene-deleted RABV-based vaccine (rRABV-ΔM) infects and activates primary murine macrophages in vitro. Immunization of mice with live RABV-based vaccines results in accumulation of macrophages at the site of immunization, which suggests that macrophages in tissues support the development of effective anti-RABV B cell responses. However, we show that draining lymph node macrophages, but not macrophages at the site of immunization, are essential for the generation of germinal center B cells, follicular T helper cells, and RABV-specific antibodies. Our findings have implications for the design of new RABV-based vaccines for which early immunological events are important for the protection against RABV in postexposure settings.

IMPORTANCE

More than two-thirds of the world's population live in regions where rabies is endemic. Postexposure prophylaxis is the primary means of treating humans. Identifying immunological principles that guide the development of rapid and potent antibody responses against rabies infections will greatly increase our ability to produce more-effective rabies vaccines. Here we report that macrophages in the draining lymph node, but not in the tissue at the site of immunization are important for vaccine-induced antibody responses to rabies. Information gleaned from this study may help guide the development of a single-dose vaccine against rabies infections.

Lymph node but not intradermal injection site macrophages are critical for germinal center formation and antibody responses to rabies vaccination

Replication-deficient rabies virus (RABV)-based vaccines induce rapid and potent antibody responses via T cell-independent and T cell-dependent mechanisms. To further investigate early events in vaccine-induced antibody responses against RABV infections, we studied the role of macrophages as mediators of RABV-based vaccine immunogenicity. In this report, we show that a recombinant matrix gene-deleted RABV-based vaccine (rRABV-ΔM) infects and activates primary murine macrophages in vitro. Immunization of mice with live RABV-based vaccines results in accumulation of macrophages at the site of immunization, which suggests that macrophages in tissues support the development of effective anti-RABV B cell responses. However, we show that draining lymph node macrophages, but not macrophages at the site of immunization, are essential for the generation of germinal center B cells, follicular T helper cells, and RABV-specific antibodies. Our findings have implications for the design of new RABV-based vaccines for which early immunological events are important for the protection against RABV in postexposure settings.

IMPORTANCE

More than two-thirds of the world's population live in regions where rabies is endemic. Postexposure prophylaxis is the primary means of treating humans. Identifying immunological principles that guide the development of rapid and potent antibody responses against rabies infections will greatly increase our ability to produce more-effective rabies vaccines. Here we report that macrophages in the draining lymph node, but not in the tissue at the site of immunization are important for vaccine-induced antibody responses to rabies. Information gleaned from this study may help guide the development of a single-dose vaccine against rabies infections.