B-lymphocytes carrying IgM, in the blood
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
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.
[