CD4+CD25+ T cells regulate the intensity of hypersensitivity responses to peanut, but are not decisive in the induction of oral sensitization

Background: Naturally occurring CD4+CD25+ regulatory T cells (Tregs) play a critical role in the maintenance of self-tolerance and it has been suggested that these Tregs may also be involved in preventing allergic disease. Objective: The precise role of CD4+CD25+ T cells in the regulation of allergic responses to mucosal antigens remains to be...

Alveolar macrophages have a dual role in a rat model for trimellitic anhydride-induced occupational asthma

Occupational exposure to low molecular weight chemicals, like trimellitic anhydride (TMA), can result in occupational asthma. Alveolar macrophages (AMs) are among the first cells to encounter inhaled compounds. These cells can produce many different mediators that have a putative role in asthma. In this study, we examined the role of AMs in lung...

FcR interactions do not play a major role in inhibition of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis by anti-CD154 monoclonal antibodies

It has been demonstrated that anti-CD154 mAb treatment effectively inhibits the development of experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE). However, although it appears to prevent the induction of Th1 cells and reactivation of encephalitogenic T cells within the CNS, little information is available regarding the involvement of alternative...