B-cell receptor (BCR) recognizing influenza hemagglutinin and neuraminidase epitopes (BCR)

The B-cell receptor (BCR) recognizing influenza hemagglutinin (HA) and neuraminidase (NA) epitopes is a specialized membrane-bound immunoglobulin complex essential for the adaptive immune response to influenza viruses [Lin et al., 2023, Nature]. These receptors, found on the surface of B lymphocytes, mediate the recognition of viral surface glycoproteins, specifically the hemagglutinin (HA) responsible for cell entry and the neuraminidase (NA) responsible for viral release [Wilson & Andrews, 2012, Nature Reviews Immunology]. A unique subset of these BCRs has been identified that can recognize conserved epitopes on both HA and NA, offering a promising target for the development of universal influenza vaccines that provide broad protection across different viral strains [Lin et al., 2023, Nature]. When these receptors bind to their respective viral epitopes, they trigger an intracellular signaling cascade involving key proteins such as Bruton's tyrosine kinase (BTK) and Syk, leading to B-cell activation, clonal expansion, and the production of neutralizing antibodies [Dal Porto et al., 2004, Molecular Immunology]. In drug development, these BCRs are the primary targets of vaccination strategies, which aim to elicit a robust and diverse antibody repertoire [Krammer, 2020, Nature Reviews Immunology]. Additionally, the signaling pathways downstream of the BCR are targets for small-molecule inhibitors like ibrutinib, which are used to treat B-cell related malignancies and are studied in the context of immune modulation [PubChem].

Other names

B-cell antigen receptorSurface immunoglobulinsIgHA/NA-specific B-cell receptorDual-specific B-cell receptor

Antigen binding to the BCR triggers receptor clustering and activation of intracellular signaling pathways, including the phosphorylation of ITAMs by Lyn and subsequent activation of Syk and BTK, leading to B-cell proliferation and differentiation [Dal Porto et al., 2004, Molecular Immunology].