[Action of cytokines IL-12 and IL-4 on T helper cells. Cellular immunity or humoral immunity?].
TWO SUBSETS OF T-HELPER CELLS: T-helpers are divided into two subpopulations called Th1 and Th2 depending on the pattern of cytokines they produce. These mutually antagonist subpopulations exert different functions: Th1 cells control cellular immunity whereas Th2 cells control humoral immunity.
Several factors are involved, but the presence of certain cytokines in the environment, where cellular interactions driving specific lymphocyte sensitization occur, is the main factor determining differentiation into Th1 or Th2. CRUCIAL ROLE OF IL-12 AND IL-4: IL-12 can polarize lymphocytes towards a Th1 phenotype and IL-4 can direct T lymphocytes towards a Th2 pattern.


CONCLUSIONS
The use of cytokines, or cytokine-inhibiting agents, offers a new strategic approach for intentional modulation of the immune response.
Asselin
S
S
INSERM U283, Université René Descartes, Hôpital Cochin, Paris.
Breban
M
M
Fradelizi
D
D
D000818:Animals; D000917:Antibody Formation; D016207:Cytokines / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D007111:Immunity, Cellular; D018664:Interleukin-12 / Q000276:immunology; D015847:Interleukin-4 / Q000276:immunology; D051381:Rats; D006377:T-Lymphocytes, Helper-Inducer / Q000276:immunology*
D016207:Cytokines; D018664:Interleukin-12; D015847:Interleukin-4