Kaylor Meyer

eLife Assessment This study provides useful insights into the ways in which germinal center B cell metabolism, particularly lipid metabolism, affects cellular responses. The authors use sophisticated mouse models to convincingly demonstrate that ether lipids are relevant for B cell homeostasis and efficient humoral responses. The authors then conducted in vivo as well as in vitro experiments, thereby strengthening their conclusions.

Abstract The efficiencies with which activated B lymphocytes proliferate and develop into antibody (Ab)-secreting plasma cells are critical determinants of adaptive humoral immunity and central to sustaining certain autoimmune diseases. Increasing evidence indicates that specific pathways in intermediary metabolism, or their substrate supply, influence lymphocyte differentiation and function.

Abstract The qualities of antibody (Ab) responses provided by B lymphocytes and their plasma cell (PC) descendants are crucial facets of responses to vaccines and microbes. Metabolic processes and products regulate aspects of B cell proliferation and differentiation into germinal center (GC) and PC states as well as Ab diversification.