Involvement of B-1 cells in mucosal immunity and autoimmunity.

B-1 cells are distinguished from conventional B cells by their anatomical localization, surface phenotypes and functional characteristics. The physiological functions and pathological roles of these cells remain controversial. In this review, Masao Murakami and Tasuku Honjo summarize recent evidence for the involvement of B-1 cells in mucosal immunity and autoimmunity, and discuss the relationship between these phenomena.