The production of immunoglobulin A (IgA) in mammals exceeds all other isotypes, and it is
mostly exported across mucous membranes. The discovery of IgA and the realization that it …

IgA class switching is the process whereby B cells acquire the expression of IgA, the most
abundant antibody isotype in mucosal secretions. IgA class switching occurs via both T-cell …

Background. Common variable immunodeficiency is characterized by recurrent infections
and defective immunoglobulin production. Methods. The DEFI French national study …

Primary immunodeficiencies comprise many diseases caused by genetic defects primarily
affecting the immune system. About 150 such diseases have been identified with more than …

The cytokine BAFF binds to the receptors TACI, BCMA, and BAFF-R on B cells, whereas
APRIL binds to TACI and BCMA only. The signaling properties of soluble trimeric BAFF …

The bone marrow constitutes a favorable environment for long-lived antibody-secreting
plasma cells, providing blood-circulating antibody. Plasma cells are also present in mucosa …

Background Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) comprises heterogeneous
antibody deficiency disorders. To classify this heterogeneous syndrome, clinical as well as …

Single-span transmembrane (TM) helices have structural and functional roles well beyond
serving as mere anchors to tether water-soluble domains in the vicinity of the membrane …

BAFF is a B cell survival factor that binds to three receptors BAFF-R, TACI and BCMA. BAFF-
R is the receptor triggering naïve B cell survival and maturation while BCMA supports the …

Abstract Selective IgA deficiency (IgAD) is the most common primary immunodeficiency in
Caucasians. Although it is often asymptomatic, selected patients show an increased …