National Academy of Sciences, Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 16(112), 2015
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Significance In this study we investigate the origin of the protective B-cell response in the spleen in atherosclerosis. We find an ongoing B-cell activation with production of antibodies against oxidation-specific epitopes. In addition, this response can be accelerated using apoptotic cells alone that reduce lesion development and serum cholesterol in a B-cell–dependent manner. This study pinpoints the spleen as an important organ for atherosclerosis-associated immunity and provides novel pathways to use for treatment.