The generation of germinal centers

Germinal centers are clusters of B lymphoblastoid cells that develop after antigenic stimulation in follicles of peripheral lymphoid organs. These structures are thought to play a major role in the generation of B memory cells. This thesis is dealing with several aspects of these germinal centers. In the introductionary chapter a survey is given of the literature concerning germinal centers. Moreover, in this chapter the findings of our studies as described in appendix papers 1-VII, are included and discussed. ... Zie: Summary