ABSTRACT
Objective To study the genes modulated during plasma cell development and their regulating network. Methods The changes of gene expression during differentiation from mature B cells to plasma cells were studied using cDNA microarray and RT PCR. Results The gene expression profile during plasma cell differentiation was established. During mature B cell plasma cell differentiation, numerous genes were modulated, including genes involving immunity, cell growth, survival, and signal transduction. The expressions of several molecules in the B cell antigen receptor (BCR) signaling pathways, such as Ig?, Ig?, Lyn, Syk, BLNK, SWAP 70, and SHP 1 were down regulated. The decreased expression of some of these molecules might be associated with the down regulation of the transcription factor BSAP. Conclusion During plasma cell differentiation, molecules involving BCR signaling pathways are down regulated.