The analysis of B cell differentiation pathways will provide basic information and insights into fundamental questions concerning B cell development, especially the factors that determine the choices made by primary B cells after activation with a multideterminant antigen. My studies will examine the molecular, cellular and physiological outcome of activating primary B cells whose receptors differ in affinity and antigen specificity. The experiments will test the main hypothesis that the consequences of B-Cell receptor (BCR) signaling, particularly with respect to commitment to antibody secretion vs. memory, are influenced by BCR affinity: low affinity B cells are activated to enter the memory but not the antibody secreting pathway, while high affinity B cells are activated to secrete antibodies and also enter the memory phase. These studies are relevant for understanding the B cell differentiation pathway and for human diseases caused by multiple epitope pathogens. The results are applicable to issues of vaccine design for cancer treatment.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases (NIAID)
Type
Postdoctoral Individual National Research Service Award (F32)
Project #
5F32AI010194-02
Application #
6169096
Study Section
Special Emphasis Panel (ZRG2-IMB (01))
Program Officer
Prograis, Lawrence J
Project Start
2000-03-31
Project End
Budget Start
2000-03-31
Budget End
2001-03-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
2000
Total Cost
$39,232
Indirect Cost
Name
Brandeis University
Department
Type
Organized Research Units
DUNS #
616845814
City
Waltham
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02454