Cryo-EM structure of the human IgM B cell receptor

Science. 2022 Aug 19;377(6608):875-880. doi: 10.1126/science.abo3923. Epub 2022 Aug 18.

Abstract

The B cell receptor (BCR) initiates immune responses through antigen recognition. We report a 3.3-angstrom cryo-electron microscopy structure of human immunoglobulin M (IgM)-BCR in the resting state. IgM-BCR comprises two heavy chains, two light chains, and the Igα/Igβ heterodimer. The ectodomains of the heavy chains closely stack against those of Igα/Igβ, with one heavy chain locked between Igα and Igβ in the juxtamembrane region. Extracellular interactions may determine isotype specificity of the BCR. The transmembrane helices of IgM-BCR form a four-helix bundle that appears to be conserved among all BCR isotypes. This structure contains 14 glycosylation sites on the IgM-BCR ectodomains and reveals three potential surface binding sites. Our work reveals the organizational principles of the BCR and may facilitate the design of antibody-based therapeutics.

MeSH terms

  • CD79 Antigens* / chemistry
  • Cell Membrane / chemistry
  • Cryoelectron Microscopy
  • Humans
  • Immunoglobulin M* / chemistry

Substances

  • CD79 Antigens
  • Immunoglobulin M