BAFF

Author: Prof. Dr. med. Peter Altmeyer

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Last updated on: 06.06.2022

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Synonym(s)

BAFF; B-cell activating factor; B-cell activation factor

Definition
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Acronym for "soluble human B lymphocyte stimulator protein". BAFF(BLyS) is a naturally occurring protein that is critical for the maturation, survival and function of B lymphocytes. BAFF is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily (see Tumor necrosis factor-α below) and is present in a membrane-bound form and dissolved in its active form. BAFF is expressed on cells of the innate immune system, on neutrophil granulocytes, monocytes and macrophages; furthermore on dendritic cells and some T and B cells.

3 different receptors are currently detected on B cells:

BLys receptor 1-3, with BLyS receptor 3 (BR3, syn. BAFF3) being considered the most important. The BLyS3 receptor exerts a critical function in antibody production by inhibiting selection and apoptosis of autoreactive B cells.

In SLE patients (see below Lupus erythematosus, systemic), serum levels of BAFF have been shown to be elevated and correlate with double-stranded antibody levels. It is likely that in systemic lupus erythematosus and certain other autoimmune diseases, elevated BLyS levels contribute to the production of autoantibodies. Inhibition of BAFF by a monoclonal antibody(belimumab) resulted in an improvement of the clinical picture.

Literature
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  1. Dubey A K (2011) First targeted biological treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus. J Pharmacol Pharmacother 2: 317-319
  2. Glasses N (2012) Belimumab dermatologist 63: 253-255
  3. Navarra SV (2011) Efficacy and safety of belimumab in patients with active systemic lupus erythematosus: a randomised, placebo-controlled, phase 3 trial. Lancet 377: 721-731

Incoming links (4)

BAFF receptor; CVID4; PID; TNFRSF13C Gene;

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Last updated on: 06.06.2022