B cells and their role in the teleost gut

Mucosal surfaces are the main route of entry for pathogens in all living organisms: In the case of teleost fish, mucosal surfaces cover the vast majority of the animal. As these surfaces are in constant contact with the environment, fish are perpetually exposed to a vast number of pathogens. Despite the potential prevalence and variety of pathogens, mucosal surfaces are primarily populated by commensal nonpathogenic bacteria. Indeed, a fine balance between these two populations of microorganisms is crucial for animal survival. This equilibrium, controlled by the mucosal immune system, maintains homeostasis at mucosal tissues. Teleost fish possess a diffuse mucosa-associated immune system in the intestine, with B cells being one of the main responders. Immunoglobulins produced by these lymphocytes are a critical line of defense against pathogens and also prevent the entrance of commensal bacteria into the epithelium. In this review we will summarize recent literature regarding the role of B lymphocytes and immunoglobulins in gut immunity in teleost fish, with specific focus on immunoglobulin ishtypes and the microorganisms, pathogenic and non-pathogenic that interact with the immune system. (C) 2016 Published by Elsevier Ltd.