The rap GTPases regulate B cell morphology, immune-synapse formation, and signaling by particulate B cell receptor ligands

Authors:
Lin KB, Freeman SA, Zabetian S, Brugger H, Weber M, Lei V, Dang-Lawson M, Tse KW, Santamaria R, Batista FD, Gold MR
In:
Source: Immunity
Publication Date: (2008)
Issue: 28(1): 75-87
Research Area:
Immunotherapy / Hematology
Cells used in publication:
A20
Species: mouse
Tissue Origin: blood
B-cell, mouse, stimulated
Species: mouse
Tissue Origin: blood
Platform:
Nucleofector® I/II/2b
Abstract
B lymphocytes spread and extend membrane processes when searching for antigens and form immune synapses upon contacting cells that display antigens on their surface. Although these dynamic morphological changes facilitate B cell activation, the signaling pathways underlying these processes are not fully understood. We found that activation of the Rap GTPases was essential for these changes in B cell morphology. Rap activation was important for B cell receptor (BCR)- and lymphocyte-function-associated antigen-1 (LFA-1)-induced spreading, for BCR-induced immune-synapse formation, and for particulate BCR ligands to induce localized F-actin assembly and membrane-process extension. Rap activation and F-actin assembly were also required for optimal BCR signaling in response to particulate antigens but not soluble antigens. Thus by controlling B cell morphology and cytoskeletal organization, Rap might play a key role in the activation of B cells by particulate and cell-associated antigens.