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7052001 
Journal Article 
Re-thinking the functions of IgA(+) plasma cells 
Mow, BM; Chandra, J; Svingen, PA; Hallgren, CG; Weisberg, E; Kottke, TJ; Narayanan, VL; Litzow, MR; Griffin, JD; Sausville, EA; Tefferi, A; Gommerman, JL; Rojas, OL; Fritz, JH; , 
2014 
1 
Gut Microbes
ISSN: 1949-0976
EISSN: 1949-0984 
English 
25483334 
The intestinal mucosa harbors the largest population of antibody (Ab)-secreting plasma cells (PC) in the human body, producing daily several grams of immunoglobulin A (IgA). IgA has many functions, serving as a first-line barrier that protects the mucosal epithelium from pathogens, toxins and food antigens (Ag), shaping the intestinal microbiota, and regulating host-commensal homeostasis. Signals induced by commensal colonization are central for regulating IgA induction, maintenance, positioning and function and the number of IgA(+) PC is dramatically reduced in neonates and germ-free (GF) animals. Recent evidence demonstrates that the innate immune effector molecules tumor necrosis factor α (TNFα) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) are required for IgA(+) PC homeostasis during the steady state and infection. Moreover, new functions ascribed to PC independent of Ab secretion continue to emerge, suggesting that PC, including IgA(+) PC, should be re-examined in the context of inflammation and infection. Here, we outline mechanisms of IgA(+) PC generation and survival, reviewing their functions in health and disease.