EBV-encoded latent membrane protein 1 cooperates with BAFF/BLyS and APRIL to induce T cell-independent Ig heavy chain class switching.

ABSTRACT: By substituting the H chain C region of IgM with that of IgG, IgA, or IgE, class switching enables Abs to acquire new effector functions that are crucial for the neutralization of invading pathogens. Class switching occurs through class switch DNA recombination (CSR) and usually requires engagement of CD40 on B cells by CD40 ligand on Ag-activated CD4(+) T cells. CSR must be tightly regulated because abnormal IgG and IgA production favors the onset of autoimmunity, whereas increased switching to IgE leads to atopy. These inflammatory disorders can be triggered or exacerbated by EBV infection. In this study, we show that EBV induces CD40-independent CSR from C( micro ) to multiple downstream C(gamma), C(alpha), and C(epsilon) genes through latent membrane protein 1 (LMP1), a CD40-like viral

SUBMITTER: He B 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4625407 | biostudies-literature | 2003 Nov

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature