Different B cell subsets are commonly identified based on the expression or lack of expression of specific cell surface and intracellular markers. Our selection of primary antibodies conjugated to one of over 30 fluorescent labels allows direct detection of cell surface and intracellular targets with the highest level of flexibility for multiplex experiments. Our antibodies are validated for specificity and reproducibility in multiple applications, including flow cytometry, immunocytochemistry/immunofluorescence (ICC/IF), immunohistochemistry (IHC), and Western blot. The tables below list the markers that are commonly used to identify different B cell subsets.
When an R&D Systems antibody is not available for a specific target molecule, we recommend using an antibody from our sister brand, Novus Biologicals™, whose products can be found at novusbio.com. Links provided in the tables below will show you to a list of antibodies from Novus Biologicals when an R&D Systems antibody is not available for a specific target.
Follicular B Cells
Follicular B cells are the largest subset of mature B cells in mice and humans and are found in the follicles of the lymph nodes and spleen. They recirculate in the secondary lymphoid organs and can differentiate into short-lived, antibody-secreting plasma cells and memory B cells following activation.
Marginal Zone B Cells
Marginal zone B cells are a subset of innate-like B cells located in between the white and red pulp in the marginal zone of the spleen, where they play a key role in protecting against blood borne pathogens. Marginal zone B cells have a poly-reactive BCR that can bind to a variety of antigens. Following activation, they produce low-affinity antibodies aimed at rapidly clearing pathogens and apoptotic debris.
Memory B Cells
Once B cells are activated, they differentiate into memory B cells in germinal centers that form within the B cell follicles in the lymph nodes and spleen. Memory B cells circulate in the blood and have BCRs that are specific to the antigens that triggered their initial formation. Upon re-exposure to the antigen, memory B cells quickly respond by producing high affinity, antigen-specific antibodies to protect the host from re-infection.
Plasma Cells
Plasma cells are antibody-secreting cells required for both short-lived and long-term antibody responses following antigen exposure. They are terminally-differentiated, non-proliferative cells, whose primary function is to secrete antibodies at a high rate to defend the host against an invading pathogen.
Regulatory B Cells
Regulatory B cells are a small subset of B cells with immunosuppressive properties that are involved in dampening inflammation and restoring immune homeostasis. These cells produce cytokines such as IL-10, IL-35, and TGF-β, which inhibit the differentiation, proliferation, and activation of pro-inflammatory T effector cells.
Detection of B Cells Using Multicolor Flow Cytometry. B cells were detected in human peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) by staining with antibodies in the CD19 B Cell Panel (Catalog # FMC-P-003), which includes an Alexa Fluor® 405-conjugated Mouse Anti-Human CD3 Monoclonal Antibody, an Alexa Fluor® 647-conjugated Mouse Anti-Human CD45 Monoclonal Antibody, and a PE-conjugated Mouse Anti-Human CD19 Monoclonal Antibody. Alexa Fluor® is a registered trademark of Molecular Probes, Inc., Eugene, OR.
