B-cell activating factor (BAFF)

B-cell activating factor (BAFF) is a cytokine and member of the TNF ligand superfamily that plays a critical role in the regulation of B-cell survival, maturation, and differentiation[1][4][6][7]. It is mainly produced by myeloid cells (e.g. monocytes, dendritic cells, macrophages) as well as some T cells. BAFF is a membrane-bound protein that can be cleaved to release a soluble form, both of which signal through specific receptors (BAFF-R, TACI, BCMA) on B cells and plasma cells. This signaling pathway is central to maintaining a healthy B-cell compartment but contributes to autoimmunity when dysregulated. BAFF is the therapeutic target for several biologic drugs aimed at reducing pathologic B-cell activity in diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and B-cell malignancies[1][4][6][7].

Other names

Tumor necrosis factor ligand superfamily member 13BCD257B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS)TALL-1TNFSF13BDendritic cell-derived TNF-like moleculeTNR-APOL-related leukocyte expressed ligand

Neutralization of BAFF ligand (prevents activation of BAFF receptors and downstream B-cell survival) Inhibition of B-cell maturation and survival Suppression of autoantibody-producing B cells