Purpose of review: Although type 1 diabetes (T1D) is characterized by destruction of the pancreatic beta cells by self-reactive T cells, it has become increasingly evident that B cells also play a major role in disease development, likely functioning as antigen-presenting cells. Here we review the biology of islet antigen-reactive B cells and their participation in autoimmune diabetes.
Recent findings: Relative to late onset, individuals who develop T1D at an early age display increased accumulation of insulin-reactive B cells in islets. This B-cell signature is also associated with rapid progression of disease and responsiveness to B-cell depletion therapy. Also suggestive of B-cell participation in disease is loss of anergy in high-affinity insulin-reactive B cells. Importantly, loss of anergy is seen in patient's healthy first-degree relatives carrying certain T1D risk alleles, suggesting a role early in disease development.
Summary: Recent studies indicate that islet-reactive B cells may play a pathogenic role very early in T1D development in young patients, and suggest utility of therapies that target these cells.