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B-lymphocytes carrying IgM, in the blood
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
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Normally, the relative amount of B-lymphocytes carrying IgM in adults is 3-10%, the absolute amount is 0.07-0.17 × 10 9 / l.
B-lymphocytes carrying IgM, - cells of humoral immunity, responsible for the synthesis of antibodies. They are formed in the red bone marrow and accumulate mainly in the peripheral lymphoid organs. Peripheral blood contains only 3-10% of their total number. After binding of antigens with surface IgM receptors of B-lymphocytes, the latter are activated and prepared for DNA synthesis and fission. Growth factors (IL-4) are required for the proliferation of B-lymphocytes, and IL-5 and IL-6 (factors determining the differentiation of B-lymphocytes) to form immunoglobulin-producing plasma cells.
The ratio of populations in a common B-lymphocyte pool is important in assessing humoral immunity. The violation of the ratio is characteristic for insufficiency of humoral immunity.
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