Redegeld FA, Nijkamp FP. Immunoglobulin free light chains and mast cells: pivotal role in T-cell-mediated immune reactions?
Trends Immunol 2003;
24:181-5. [PMID:
12697449 DOI:
10.1016/s1471-4906(03)00059-0]
[Citation(s) in RCA: 65] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
Immunoglobulin (Ig) free light (L)-chains have long been considered as the meaningless remnants of a spillover in the regular Ig production by B cells. The recently discovered role for Ig free L-chains in mediating hypersensitivity-like responses sheds new light on their potential role in immune responses. Ig free L-chains can sensitize mast cells, such that a second encounter with the appropriate antigen results in mast-cell activation. The possible importance of this reaction for the induction of T-cell-mediated immune reactions, leading to contact sensitivity, multiple sclerosis and rheumatoid arthritis is discussed.
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