Age-associated B cells (ABCs) in atherosclerosis and cardiovascular disease

We have recently identified age-associated B cells (ABCs) as a subpopulation associated with incident first-time coronary events, prompting further investigation into their phenotypic diversity and potential roles in cardiovascular disease (CVD) and atherosclerosis development.

To elucidate the involvement of ABC-produced autoantibodies in CVD pathogenesis, we will analyze the autoantibody repertoire by their binding to arrays of 42000 human protein fragments.

We will explore associations between ABC subpopulations enumerated by flow cytometry, ABC-produced autoantibodies, and CVD in a population cohort with extensive phenotypic data and imaging of subclinical CVD.

Additionally, we seek to understand the mechanistic roles of ABCs investigating whether their expansion or deletion affects atherosclerosis development in mice. Finally, we will relate cellular energy metabolism in ABCs to their phenotypic and functional diversity.

The increasing life expectancy and rise in diabetes incidence underscores the growing importance of cardiovascular diagnostic tools and therapies tailored for an aging population.

Therefore, understanding the role of ABCs in CVD pathogenesis, investigating their reactivity to self-antigens, and elucidating how age-related changes in the immune system and cellular metabolism impact ABC function during aging are all justified endeavors.