BAFF Human

B-cell Activating Factor (BAFF), also known as B-lymphocyte stimulator (BLyS), is a member of the tumor necrosis factor (TNF) superfamily. It plays a crucial role in the survival, maturation, and function of B cells, which are essential components of the adaptive immune system. BAFF is produced by various cell types, including T cells, macrophages, and dendritic cells .

BAFF is typically a transmembrane protein but can be cleaved in the extracellular region to produce a soluble form detectable in the serum . The human recombinant form of BAFF is a 153 amino acid protein containing the TNF-like domain and has a molecular mass of approximately 17.2 kDa .

BAFF is essential for the survival and maturation of peripheral B cells. It initiates signaling through three receptors: BAFF-R (BLyS receptor 3), TACI (transmembrane activator and CAML interactor), and BCMA (B-cell maturation antigen) . These receptors are primarily found on B lymphocytes, although BAFF-R is also present on a subset of T cells .

BAFF enhances the chemotaxis of primary human B cells, particularly in synergy with CXCL13 on memory B cells . It promotes the survival of B cells by activating several signaling pathways, including PI3K/AKT, NF-κB, and p38MAPK . High expression of BAFF is associated with increased Tʜ1 response and correlates with B cell malignancies and autoimmune diseases such as systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis .

Due to its critical role in B cell biology, BAFF is a target for therapeutic interventions in various autoimmune diseases and B cell malignancies. Recombinant human BAFF is used in research to study its effects on B cell function and to develop potential treatments for related conditions .