B-cell: a logical target for treatment of rheumatoid arthritis.

The interest for B-cells in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is currently being revived. They are involved in the development and activation of lymphoid architecture by regulating dentritic cell and T-cell function through cytokine production. Receptor editing an revising are also essential in B-cells and aid in preventing autoimmunity. Abnormalities in the subset distribution and a default in any task assigned to the B-cells may favor autoimmunity. Beneficied responses to B-cell depletion in RA by anti-CD20 monoclonal antibody rituximab illustrate the importance of B-lymphocytes in the pathogenesis of this disease. A new avenue has thus been opened, whereby B-lymphocytes return as a significant contributor to autoimmune disorders.