Purpose of review: This manuscript reviews current knowledge and recent findings regarding antibody-independent functions of B cells in transplantation.
Recent findings: Until recently the functions of B cells in transplantation have been attributed almost entirely to the antibodies they produce. However, the results of recent trials of B-cell-depleting agents for treatment of antibody-mediated rejection as well as auto-immune disease raised awareness that B cells mediate functions independent of antibody synthesis.
Summary: These 'nonclassical' functions place B cells at the center of immune regulation with the power to enhance or inhibit immunity.