T-cell epitopes of aeroallergens.
OBJECTIVE
To describe the current knowledge of the T-cell epitopes of common aeroallergens, how they were discovered, and implications for future therapy.


METHODS
PubMed search of English-language articles without date limits pertaining to T-cell epitopes of aeroallergens included on a standard skin test panel.


METHODS
A total of 127 articles were screened based on the results of the PubMed search and cross-indexed as needed. The highest quality and most clinically relevant articles were included for discussion.


RESULTS
Of the 47 allergen extracts included on the standard skin test panel at our instittition, T-cell epitopes have been described for 13. Immunodominant epitopes have been used for peptide immunotherapy trials.


CONCLUSIONS
T-cell epitopes have been characterized for a minority of common aeroallergens. However, knowledge is rapidly expanding and can lay the groundwork for therapies that specifically target T cells.
Letz
Adrian G
AG
Wilford Hall Medical Center, Lackland AFB, San Antonio, Texas, USA. adrian.letz@lackland.af.mil
Calabria
Christopher W
CW
D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology* / Q000627:therapeutic use; D000818:Animals; D018984:Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte / Q000276:immunology*; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000276:immunology* / Q000628:therapy; D016056:Immunodominant Epitopes / Q000276:immunology*
D000485:Allergens; D018984:Epitopes, T-Lymphocyte; D016056:Immunodominant Epitopes