B cells

We have introduced general ways in which B cells play a role in protective immunity against microbes. Although B cells were originally defined solely as antibody-producing cells, it is now known that they have other functions that are equally as important as producing antibodies. These include antigen-presenting cell activity and the production of natural IgM antibodies that trigger complement activation. Future research will undoubtedly help define how changes in B-cell functions following injury and sepsis affect the development of effective or suppressive immunity in patients who are predisposed to sepsis, are undergoing sepsis, or are in septic shock.