%A Pioli,Peter D. %D 2019 %J Frontiers in Immunology %C %F %G English %K plasmablasts,Plasma Cells,Inflammation,Hematopoiesis,Toll-like receptor,immunoglobulin %Q %R 10.3389/fimmu.2019.02768 %W %L %M %P %7 %8 2019-November-22 %9 Perspective %# %! Plasma cells do more than secrete antibodies %* %< %T Plasma Cells, the Next Generation: Beyond Antibody Secretion %U https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fimmu.2019.02768 %V 10 %0 JOURNAL ARTICLE %@ 1664-3224 %X Plasma cells (PCs) represent the terminal differentiation step of mature B lymphocytes. These cells are most recognizable for their extended lifespan as well as their ability to secrete large amounts of antibodies (Abs) thus positioning this cell type as a key component of humoral immunity. However, it is now appreciated that PCs can have far reaching effects on pathologic as well as non-pathologic processes independent of Ab secretion. This is highlighted by recent studies showing that PCs function as key regulators of processes such as hematopoiesis as well as neuro-inflammation. In part, PCs accomplish this by integrating extrinsic signals from their environment which dictate their downstream functionality. Here we summarize the current understanding of PC biology focusing on their ever-growing functional repertoire independent of Ab production. Furthermore, we discuss potential applications of PC immunotherapy and its implementation for translational benefit.