Genetic defects in B-cell development and their clinical consequences.

Expression of selected genes in hematopoietic stem cells has been identified as a regulator of differentiation of B cells in the liver and bone marrow. Moreover, naïve B cells expressing surface immunoglobulin need other types of genes for antigen-dependent development in secondary lymphoid organs. Many advanced molecular mechanisms underlying primary antibody deficiencies in humans have been described. We provide an overview of the mutations in genes known to be involved in B-cell development and their clinical consequences.