PI3Kdelta-driven expansion of regulatory B cells impairs protective immune responses to Trypanosoma congolense parasite infection

Abstract

Phosphatidylinositol 3-kinase delta (PI3KCD) is a critical signaling enzyme for B cell development, activation, function and immune regulation. Gain-of-function mutations in PI3KCD result in the congenital immunodeficiency known as Activated PI3KCD Syndrome (APDS). APDS patients are prone to repeated infections and other serious clinical manifestations. Here, we determine how B cell-intrinsic expression of the APDS-associated PI3KCDE1021K mutation impacts immune responses to the protozoan parasite Trypanosoma congolense. PI3KCDE1021K/B mice exhibit a significant expansion of IL10-expressing B cells within the spleen and peritoneal cavity, which was associated with impaired control of T. congolense infection. Despite the generation of robust germinal center, plasma cell and antibody responses, PI3KCDE1021K/B mice show elevation in the first wave of parasitemia and increased mortality. We further characterize the phenotype of the expanded IL10-producing B cell population in PI3KCDE1021K/B mice, which show hallmarks of innate-like regulatory B cells (Breg) and expression of multiple inhibitory molecules. This Breg expansion is associated with reduced IFNγ/ IL10 ratio, reduced TNFα production and impaired activation of myeloid cells, likely compromising the innate response to infection. These findings highlight the profound impact of dysregulated PI3KCD activity on regulatory B cells that can functionally impair innate immune responses controlling a systemic parasite protozoan disease.