T helper type 1 cells in asthma: friend or foe?

Curr Opin Allergy Clin Immunol. 2002 Feb;2(1):31-7. doi: 10.1097/00130832-200202000-00006.

Abstract

A large body of research supports a pathogenic role for T helper 2 cells in asthma, although T helper 1 cell-type responses may also contribute. Using the principle of T helper cell cross-regulation, investigators have attempted to regulate the pathological effects of T helper 2 cells using regimens that may promote T helper 1 cell-type inflammation. In this review, we propose that the use of factors that promote T helper 1 cell differentiation and activation to treat asthma may be counterproductive, and that alternate regulatory approaches should be explored.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Research Support, U.S. Gov't, P.H.S.
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Antigens, Bacterial / immunology
  • Antigens, Bacterial / metabolism
  • Asthma / etiology*
  • Asthma / immunology
  • Cytokines / metabolism*
  • Dendritic Cells / immunology
  • Down-Regulation
  • Humans
  • Inflammation / complications
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Interleukins / therapeutic use
  • Lymphocyte Activation
  • Mice
  • Models, Biological
  • Th1 Cells / immunology*
  • Th1 Cells / metabolism
  • Th2 Cells / immunology
  • Th2 Cells / metabolism

Substances

  • Antigens, Bacterial
  • Cytokines
  • Interleukins