Toll-like receptors: lessons to learn from normal and malignant human B cells

Blood. 2008 Sep 15;112(6):2205-13. doi: 10.1182/blood-2008-02-140673. Epub 2008 Jun 30.

Abstract

The humoral immune system senses microbes via recognition of specific microbial molecular motifs by Toll-like receptors (TLRs). These encounters promote plasma cell differentiation and antibody production. Recent studies have demonstrated the importance of the TLR system in enhancing antibody-mediated defense against infections and maintaining memory B cells. These results have led the way to the design of vaccines that target B cells by engaging TLRs. In hematologic malignancies, cells often retain B cell-specific receptors and associated functions. Among these, TLRs are currently exploited to target different subclasses of B-cell leukemia, and TLR agonists are currently being evaluated in clinical trials. However, accumulating evidence suggests that endogenous TLR ligands or chronic infections promote tumor growth, thus providing a need for further investigations to decipher the exact function of TLRs in the B-cell lineage and in neoplastic B cells. The aim of this review is to present and discuss the latest advances with regard to the expression and function of TLRs in both healthy and malignant B cells. Special attention will be focused on the growth-promoting effects of TLR ligands on leukemic B cells and their potential clinical impact.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibody Formation
  • B-Lymphocytes / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Leukemia, B-Cell / pathology
  • Ligands
  • Lymphoma, B-Cell / pathology
  • Toll-Like Receptors / immunology*

Substances

  • Ligands
  • Toll-Like Receptors