Allergen-Induced mRNA Expression of IL-5, but Not of IL-4 and IFN-γ, in Peripheral Blood Mononuclear Cells Is a Key Feature of Clinical Manifestation of Seasonal Allergic Rhinitis

Open Access
Publisher Website
Google Scholar
Abstract
CD4-POSITIVE helper T (TH) cells have been categorized into at least 2 distinct subsets (TH1 and TH2) based on their profiles of cytokine secretion.1 An accumulation of TH2-like cells occurs at allergic inflammatory sites and increased levels of TH2 cell–derived cytokines in culture supernatants from peripheral blood lymphocytes.2,3 Cytokines derived by TH2 cells are involved in IgE synthesis and allergic inflammation,4,5 whereas TH1-type cytokines such as interferon gamma (IFN-γ) inhibit the IgE synthesis and the development of TH2 clones.6,7 The current hypothesis is that imbalances between TH1 and TH2 cells seem to be responsible for allergic conditions.