Blys
Synonym(s)
BAFF; B-cell activating factor; B-cell activation factor
DefinitionThis section has been translated automatically.
- Acronym for "soluble human B lymphocyte stimulator protein". BLyS is a naturally occurring protein that is essential for the maturation, survival and function of B lymphocytes. BLyS belongs to the tumor necrosis factor superfamily (see below tumor necrosis factor-α) and is membrane-bound and dissolved in its active form. BLyS 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. BAFFr) being the most important. The BLyS3 receptor performs a crucial function in antibody production by inhibition of selection and apoptosis of autoreactive B cells.
- In SLE patients (see below lupus erythematosus, systemic) it has been shown that serum levels of BLyS are elevated and correlate with the concentration of double-stranded antibodies. It is assumed that in systemic lupus erythematosus and certain other autoimmune diseases, elevated BLyS levels contribute to the production of autoantibodies. Inhibition of BLyS by a monoclonal antibody ( Belimumab) led to an improvement in the clinical picture.
LiteratureThis section has been translated automatically.
- Dubey A K (2011) First targeted biological treatment for systemic lupus erythematosus. J Pharmacol Pharmacother 2: 317-319
- Glasses N (2012) Belimumab dermatologist 63: 253-255
- 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