Antigen presenting cells in allergy

Abstract

Allergic response is the result of a complex immunologic cascade leading to the dysregulated production of Th2 cytokines. Antigen presenting cells (APCs), mainly dendritic cells (DCs), provide T cells with antigen and costimulatory signals as well as with polarizing signals, such as signals of cytokines, chemokines, and costimulatory molecules. In addition, DCs are also important for the induction of immunological tolerance. In this review, the author discusses the contribution of APCs to allergic responses and new strategies for the treatment of allergic diseases using DC subsets that either deliver signals to modify polarization of T cells or induce tolerance.