Homo sapiens Transcriptome or Gene expression. Homo sapiens

The ligation of B lymphocyte antigen receptors (BCR) by most natural ligands is unexplored. Improved insight into antigen-specific BCR signaling is needed to understand B cell developmental steps that are critical to protection from pathogens, as well as disease processes such as autoimmunity, atopy and neoplastic transformation. This report describes a workflow for transient expression of BCR specific for EBNA-1, an important viral antigen produced by cells infected with Epstein Barr Virus. Engagement of EBNA-1 specific BCR on transfected human B cells results in key downstream responses, such as calcium mobilization, cell proliferation and altered transcriptional profiles. This work sets the stage for a broader evaluation of antigen-specific BCR signaling in the context of normal B cell development and adaptive immunity. It also opens up opportunities to evaluate the mechanisms by which the structural and multivalent properties of specific antigens override tolerance and lead to pathogenesis.