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


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


METHODS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
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.
Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Marmara University, Istanbul, Turkey.
Cevdet
C
Ozdemir
Umut Can
UC
Kucuksezer
Mübeccel
M
Akdis
Cezmi A
CA
Akdis
D000485:Allergens / Q000276:immunology / Q000627:therapeutic use*; D000818:Animals; D017951:Antigen Presentation / Q000187:drug effects; D048708:Cell Growth Processes / Q000187:drug effects; D016207:Cytokines / Q000378:metabolism; D003888:Desensitization, Immunologic; D006801:Humans; D006967:Hypersensitivity / Q000188:drug therapy / Q000276:immunology*; D007108:Immune Tolerance; D007165:Immunosuppression Therapy; D008213:Lymphocyte Activation / Q000187:drug effects; D016176:T-Lymphocyte Subsets / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology*; D050378:T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory / Q000187:drug effects / Q000276:immunology*; D058408:Th1-Th2 Balance
D000485:Allergens; D016207:Cytokines