Technical Articles

This article systematically elaborates on the molecular characteristics and expression distribution of B-cell activating factor (BAFF) as a member of the tumor necrosis factor ligand family, analyzes its signaling network regulating B-cell survival, proliferation, and differentiation through three receptors (BAFFR, TACI, BCMA), and explores the abnormal expression of BAFF in various autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and its pathogenic mechanisms.

This article systematically elucidates the structural characteristics and functional diversity of B-cell activating factor (BAFF), detailing its various forms from membrane-bound to soluble trimers and 60-mers, along with their biological significance. It analyzes the signaling networks through which BAFF regulates B-cell survival and differentiation via its three receptors (BAFFR, TACI, BCMA), and explores the pathological association between BAFF overexpression and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus.

The BAFF&APRIL heterotrimeric protein is an innovative recombinant tool that precisely mimics the complex signaling environment in vivo. By fusing B-cell activating factor (BAFF/BLyS) and a proliferation-inducing ligand (APRIL) in a heterotrimeric form with a histidine tag, it provides an unprecedented high-fidelity platform for studying the synergistic mechanisms of abnormal B-cell activation, survival, and antibody production.

B-cell polarizing cytokines are a group of key signaling molecules that direct B-cell differentiation, antibody class switching, and functional specialization.

B cell cytokines are crucial signaling molecules in the immune system, not only regulating antibody production and immune responses but also playing a central role in infections, autoimmune diseases, cancer, and inflammatory disorders.

BAFF, fully known as B-cell Activating Factor, also referred to as BLyS and TNFSF13B, is a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily. As a crucial type II transmembrane protein, BAFF is primarily secreted by myeloid cells and serves as a key regulator for the survival, maturation, and activation of B lymphocytes. Since its discovery, BAFF has become a central target for research and drug development in autoimmune diseases, particularly those involving B cells.

B-cell activating factor (BAFF, also known as BLyS or TNFSF13B), a member of the tumor necrosis factor superfamily, is a central regulator of B lymphocyte survival, maturation, and function. Dysregulation of its signaling pathway is closely associated with the pathogenesis and progression of various autoimmune diseases. This article aims to systematically elucidate the biological functions, signaling pathways, pathological roles, and research progress in targeted therapies of BAFF, providing peers with an overview focused on molecular mechanisms and research frontiers.