The role of the FOXP3 transcription factor in the immune regulation of allergic asthma.
Unbalanced immune reactions against allergens are caused by Th2 cells, which are the basis of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated symptoms of allergy and asthma. Although Th2 cells are essential for allergy, they are not sufficient to cause disease, because regulatory T cells (Tregs) control their activity and expansion. Therefore, Tregs are assumed to play an important role not only in the sensitization but also in established allergic disease under therapy. A key factor of Tregs is FOXP3, which, upon expression, is sufficient to induce regulatory T-cell phenotypes. The initiation and suppressive function of FOXP3 and Tregs in the context of allergic asthma are discussed in this review.
Schmidt-Weber
Carsten B
CB
Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Obere Str. 22, CH-7270 Davos, Switzerland. carsten.schmidt-weber@siaf.unizh.ch
Blaser
Kurt
K
D001249:Asthma / Q000209:etiology / Q000276:immunology* / Q000378:metabolism*; D051858:Forkhead Transcription Factors / Q000378:metabolism*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000150:complications*; D007107:Immune System / Q000503:physiopathology*; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory
C418974:FOXP3 protein, human; D051858:Forkhead Transcription Factors