A role of FcγRIIB in the development of collagen-induced arthritis

Immune inhibitory receptors play an important role in the maintenance of adequate activation threshold of various cells in our immune system. The inhibitory Fc receptor, type IIB Fc receptor for IgG (FcgammaRIIB), is one of the critical molecules for the regulation of immune responses through antibodies. Analysis of murine models indicates that FcgammaRIIB plays an essential role in the suppression of various autoimmune disorders. Recent studies reveal the novel regulatory role of FcgammaR in the development of collagen-induced arthritis (CIA), an animal model relevant to human rheumatoid arthritis (RA). This review provides an overview of FcgammaRIIB-mediated immune regulation, highlighting the implication of FcgammaRIIB in the selection of peripheral B cell development during the CIA course. (C) 2004 Elsevier SAS. All rights reserved.