Implication of TIGIT+ human memory B cells in immune regulation

Regulatory B cells (Bregs) contribute to immune regulation. However, the mechanisms of action of Bregs remain elusive. Here, we report that T cell immunoreceptor with Ig and ITIM domains (TIGIT) expressed on human memory B cells especially CD19(+)CD24(hi)CD27(+)CD39(hi)IgD(-)IgM(+)CD1c(+) B cells is essential for effective immune regulation. Mechanistically, TIGIT on memory B cells controls immune response by directly acting on T cells and by arresting proinflammatory function of dendritic cells, resulting in the suppression of Th1, Th2, Th17, and CXCR5(+)ICOS(+) T cell response while promoting immune regulatory function of T cells. TIGIT(+) memory B cells are also superior to other B cells at expressing additional inhibitory molecules, including IL-10, TGF beta 1, granzyme B, PD-L1, CD39/CD73, and TIM-1. Lack or decrease of TIGIT(+) memory B cells is associated with increased donor-specific antibody and TFH response, and decreased Treg response in renal and liver allograft patients. Therefore, TIGIT(+) human memory B cells play critical roles in immune regulation. Regulatory B cells have been shown to play critical roles in the modulation of the immune system. Here, the authors implicate TIGIT expression in B cells with the process of immuno-regulation.