Therapeutic solutions available for neurological disorders are limited. A new review highlights the emerging role of regulatory B cells in immune regulation, focusing on their potential neuroprotective roles and therapeutic implications in these disorders. The review suggests that interleukin 10 secreted by the B cells play an important role in suppressing pro - inflammatory cytokine production. Regulatory B cells can become promising therapeutic targets for future neuroprotective strategies.
Neurological disorders are among the leading causes of disability worldwide, affecting an estimated 3.4 billion people. Conditions such as stroke, traumatic brain injury, and neurodegenerative diseases continue to place a growing burden on health systems and patients alike. However, limited availability of therapeutic solutions for these disorders often compel researchers to explore alternative solutions.
The central nervous system (CNS) and the immune system engage in bidirectional communication, controlling both local brain inflammation and systemic immunity. A new review, conducted by Dr. Luiza Stanaszek, Polish Academy of Sciences, Poland, and Dr. Miroslaw Janowski, University of Maryland, USA, explores the role of regulatory B cells (Bregs) as an emerging contributor to this process. “Bregs control inflammation by suppressing immune-mediated responses and maintaining immune homeostasis. We reviewed its role in providing neuroprotection in neurological disorders and studied if this can be considered as a potential therapeutic target in these disorders,” mentioned Dr. Janowski, talking about the motivation behind the study. The study was published on February 10, 2026, in the Neuroprotection journal.
B cells are traditionally known for contributing to humoral immunity by producing specific antibodies. However, recent research has revealed that these cells also influence immune responses through the release of cytokines. Among the different B-cell subsets, Bregs are known for their ability to suppress excessive immune activity.
Bregs, differentiating from pre-B cells, produce anti-inflammatory cytokines like interleukin-10 (IL-10). This molecule dampens inflammatory responses by inhibiting the release of pro-inflammatory cytokines by macrophages, monocytes, and dendritic cells. It also guides T cells toward regulatory phenotypes, maintaining the immune balance. This immune modulation can be particularly important in the context of neuroprotection and neuroregeneration.
Under normal conditions, the central nervous system contains very few immune cells. However, injury or neurological disorder leads to inflammation, which triggers a systemic reaction along with local action by the microglias and astrocytes. When the blood-brain barrier is disrupted due to injury or neurological disorder, immune cells, including B cells, infiltrate the CNS.
Excessive inflammation can often worsen neuronal injury and contribute to long-term neurological deficits. Regulatory B cells appear to counteract this damaging inflammation. By releasing IL-10 and interacting with other immune cells, Bregs can suppress pro-inflammatory signalling and promote the generation of regulatory T cells. These actions shift the immune response toward a more controlled, anti-inflammatory state that may help protect neurons and support recovery.
Evidence from experimental models supports the protective role of Breg in stroke. In mice experiments, animal models lacking B cells developed larger areas of infarcted region in the brain. Based on the findings of another study, transplanting IL-10-producing B cells reduced the size of the brain lesion and improved neurological outcomes. Interestingly, the key signals required for the induction of Bregs involved regulatory T cells (Treg), and the absence of Treg may affect the immune regulation and protection in these cases.
Similar findings have emerged in other neurological conditions. In experimental models of traumatic brain injury, B cells secreting IL-10 and IL-35 reduce inflammatory activity, limit lesion size, and improve motor and cognitive performance. In studies on amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, transferred B cells delayed disease progression and reduced markers of neuroinflammation. Early clinical observations in patients with the disease have also suggested that B-cell-based therapies may be safe and potentially beneficial.
“Breg cells can be considered as viable therapeutic targets for CNS disorders. However, optimal timing, dosage, and route of administration are still under investigation,” mentioned Dr. Stanaszek. By harnessing its ability to regulate inflammation, Bregs can be utilized not only to limit damage but also promote recovery in a wide range of CNS disorders.
Neuroprotection
Literature review
Not applicable
Regulatory B cells in the central nervous system: From immune regulation to neuroprotection
10-Feb-2026
The authors declare no conflicts of interest.