blast transformation

blast transformation

The activation by structural and biochemical changes, which occur in B and T cells after exposure to nonspecific mitogens (e.g., any substance that is capable of inducing cell division by mitosis). Blast transformation requires the binding of the mitogen to the appropriate receptor, followed by cross-linking of the receptors, changes in the flux of monovalent cations (Na+ and K+,)and activation of membrane-associated methyltransferases; this is accompanied by a simultaneous increase in phospholipid (especially phosphatidylinositol) synthesis and turnover, and an influx of Ca2+ ions (the exact role of which is unclear, but which may be related to the phosphorylation of critical enzymes or proteins).