Background: Common variable immunodeficiency (CVID) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by low serum levels of immunoglobulins (Igs) and recurrent infection. In most CVID patients, a defect in the differentiation of B cells into plasma cells has been observed. Several factors play an important role in the proliferation and differentiation of B cells, including IRF4 and XBP1 transcription factors.
Methods: In the present study we investigated the expression of IRF4 and XBP1 in the B-cells of CVID and healthy controls (HCs). For this purpose, we assessed the expression of IRF4 and XBP1 at both mRNA and protein levels by real time-PCR and flow cytometry, respectively.
Results: We found that IRF4 expression was significantly increased in CVID patients compared with controls. Although the XBP1 protein level was lower in patients in comparison to controls, this difference was not significant.
Conclusion: Taken together, increased IRF4 expression could be involved in defective functions of B cells in CVID patients.
Keywords: Common variable immunodeficiency; IRF4; Plasma cells; Transcription factors; XBP1.
Copyright © 2018 SEICAP. Published by Elsevier España, S.L.U. All rights reserved.