B1 cells: similarities and differences with other B cell subsets

Since their discovery, B1 B cells’ origins and developmental pathways have eluded characterization. In the past year, focus on B1 B cells has shifted dramatically from developmental to functional aspects of these cells. Most advances have been made in describing the physiological activities of B1 cells, including their migration, activation by antigen and role in both autoimmunity and malignancy.