Memory B Cells in Mouse Models

One of the principles behind vaccination, as shown by E dward J enner in 1796, and host protection is immunological memory, and one of the cells central to this is the antigen‐experienced memory B cell that responds rapidly upon re‐exposure to the initiating antigen. Classically, memory B cells have been defined as progenies of germinal centre ( GC ) B cells expressing isotype‐switched and substantially mutated B cell receptors ( BCR s), that is, membrane‐bound antibodies. However, it has become apparent over the last decade that this is not the only pathway to B cell memory. Here, we will discuss memory B cells in mice, as defined by (1) cell surface markers; (2) multiple layers; (3) formation in a T cell–dependent and either GC ‐dependent or GC ‐independent manner; (4) formation in a T cell–independent fashion. Lastly, we will touch upon memory B cells in; (5) mouse models of autoimmune diseases.