Individuals that overexpress the cytokine BAFF show increased susceptibility to autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome, a disease that targets the exocrine glands that produce saliva, tears, and other bodily secretions. If one examined the circulating antibodies in these patients, one would expect to find:
A) Increased development of B cells in the bone marrow
B) A failure of receptor editing of immunoglobulin light chain genes in the bone marrow
C) An increased rate of immature B cell export from the bone marrow
D) Reduced B-cell receptor signaling following strong cross-linking of the receptor
E) An increased number of circulating mature autoreactive B cells

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

BAFF promotes B-cell survival and maturation. Overexpression of BAFF can lead to the survival and maturation of autoreactive B cells, resulting in an increased number of circulating mature autoreactive B cells. This can contribute to the development of autoimmune diseases such as Sjögren's syndrome.

Individuals That Overexpress the Cytokine BAFF Show Increased Susceptibility to Autoimmune