tfhB

TfhB is not a standardized term with a single, universal definition. In different sources, it may refer to different concepts, typically depending on the context in which it appears. Broadly, it can denote either an immunological concept or a gene symbol used in genome annotations.

In an immunology context, TfhB has been used informally to refer to the T follicular helper–B cell axis or signaling module that coordinates B cell responses within germinal centers. This axis involves Tfh cells providing help to B cells through signals such as CD40-CD40L interaction and cytokines like IL-21, which support germinal center formation, affinity maturation, and class-switch recombination. The term is not widely standardized and is generally encountered only in specific papers or discussions.

In a genome annotation context, tfhB or TFHB may appear as a formal gene symbol for a predicted protein or hypothetical gene in a particular organism. In such cases, the function of the encoded product is not necessarily known and may require experimental validation or further bioinformatic annotation. The meaning is highly dependent on the organism and the database by which the gene symbol is defined.

Users of the term should define TfhB clearly at first use and provide full descriptive names to avoid confusion. When possible, consult the primary source or organism-specific databases to discern the intended meaning. See also T follicular helper cells, B cells, germinal center reactions, IL-21, and CD40L.