Specific immunotherapy and turning off the T cell: how does it work?

Abstract

OBJECTIVE:

To examine T-regulatory (Treg) cell functions in allergic immune responses and their roles during allergen specific immunotherapy based on recent developments and current understanding of immune regulation.

DATA SOURCES:

PubMed search of English-language articles regarding Treg cells and allergen specific immunotherapy.

STUDY SELECTION:

Articles on the subject matter were selected and reviewed.

RESULTS:

Allergen specific immunotherapy is the ultimate treatment modality targeting the immunopathogenic mechanisms of allergic disorders. A diminished allergen-specific T-cell proliferation and suppressed secretion of T(H)1- and T(H)2-type cytokines are the characteristic hallmarks. In addition, Treg cells inhibit the development of allergen-specific T(H)2 and T(H)1 cell responses and therefore exert key roles in healthy immune response to allergens. Treg cells potently suppress IgE production and directly or indirectly control the activity of effector cells of allergic inflammation, such as eosinophils, basophils, and mast cells.

CONCLUSION:

As advancements in the field of allergen specific immunotherapy ensue, they may provide novel progression of more rational and safer approaches for the prevention and treatment of allergic disorders. Currently, the Treg cell field is an open research area to increase our understanding in mechanisms of peripheral tolerance to allergens.

• Authors: Cevdet Ozdemir, Umut Can Kucuksezer, Mübeccel Akdis, Cezmi A Akdis
• Journal: Annals of allergy, asthma & immunology : official publication of the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology (Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol) Vol. 107 Issue 5 Pg. 381-92 (Nov 2011) ISSN: 1534-4436 [Electronic] United States
• PMID: 22018608 (Publication Type: Journal Article, Review)
• Copyright: Copyright © 2011 American College of Allergy. Published by Elsevier Inc. All rights reserved.

Chemical References

• Allergens
• Cytokines

Topics

• Allergens (immunology, therapeutic use)
• Animals
• Antigen Presentation (drug effects)
• Cell Growth Processes (drug effects)
• Cytokines (metabolism)
• Desensitization, Immunologic
• Humans
• Hypersensitivity (drug therapy, immunology)
• Immune Tolerance
• Immunosuppression Therapy
• Lymphocyte Activation (drug effects)
• T-Lymphocyte Subsets (drug effects, immunology)
• T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory (drug effects, immunology)
• Th1-Th2 Balance