IgM and Its Receptors and Binding Proteins

This volume reviews the current state of research on the IgM antibody and its multiple receptors and binding proteins. Interactions of the IgM ligands with these molecules are important for protection against infections as a first line of defense, as well as for regulation of immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens. The book includes up-to-date information on: (__i__) the phylogeny of three IgM-binding receptors [polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR), Fc receptor for both IgA and IgM (Fcα/μR), and Fc receptor for IgM only (FcμR)]; (__ii__) the lymphocyte-restricted distribution and unique ligand-binding activity of FcμR; (__iii__) the definition and potential function of Fc receptor-like molecule A (FCRLA) as a resident endoplasmic reticulum protein that binds IgM, but also IgG and IgA; (__iv__) IgM antibody-mediated enhancement of humoral immune responses, highlighting the importance of complement and its receptors, (__v__) the numerous important roles of IgM natural antibodies in regulation of inflammation. It is an invaluable resource for researchers and clinicians alike. This volume reviews the current state of research on the IgM antibody and its multiple receptors and binding proteins. Interactions of the IgM ligands with these molecules are important for protection against infections as a first line of defense, as well as for regulation of immune responses to pathogens and self-antigens. The book includes up-to-date information on: (i) the phylogeny of three IgM-binding receptors [polymeric Ig receptor (pIgR), Fc receptor for both IgA and IgM (Fc?/æR), and Fc receptor for IgM only (FcæR)]; (ii) the lymphocyte-restricted distribution and unique ligand-binding activity of FcæR; (iii) the definition and potential function of Fc receptor-like molecule A (FCRLA) as a resident endoplasmic reticulum protein that binds IgM, but also IgG and IgA; (iv) IgM antibody-mediated enhancement of humoral immune responses, highlighting the importance of complement and its receptors, (v) the numerous important roles of IgM natural antibodies in regulation of inflammation. It is an invaluable resource for researchers and clinicians alike Front Matter ....Pages i-ix The Appearance and Diversification of Receptors for IgM During Vertebrate Evolution (Srinivas Akula, Lars Hellman)....Pages 1-23 Authentic IgM Fc Receptor (FcμR) (Hiromi Kubagawa, Christopher M. Skopnik, Jakob Zimmermann, Pawel Durek, Hyun-Dong Chang, Esther Yoo et al.)....Pages 25-45 FCRLA—A Resident Endoplasmic Reticulum Protein that Associates with Multiple Immunoglobulin Isotypes in B Lineage Cells (Tessa E. Blackburn, Teresa Santiago, Peter D. Burrows)....Pages 47-65 Specific IgM and Regulation of Antibody Responses (Anna Sörman, Birgitta Heyman)....Pages 67-87 Role of Natural IgM Autoantibodies (IgM-NAA) and IgM Anti-Leukocyte Antibodies (IgM-ALA) in Regulating Inflammation (Peter I. Lobo)....Pages 89-117