Dendritic cells in Th2 immune responses (P1313)

Abstract

Abstract We have examined the role of dendritic cells using different models of Th2 allergic immune responses in the skin. In the first model we used the nematode parasite Nippostrongylus brasiliensis, which infects rodent hosts by penetrating through the skin. Material from labelled N. brasiliensis is taken up by migratory dendritic cells and transported to the draining lymph node where it initiates a strong Th2 immune response. We have characterized the surface phenotype of these dendritic cells in terms of lineage markers, and for expression of markers associated with Th2 immune responses. We find that these dendritic cells express markers that are compatible with a steady-state population of dermal dendritic cells. In addition, we have carried out dendritic cell transfer experiments to show that these migratory dendritic cells maintain the full capacity to prime Th2 immune responses in vivo. Additional models of Th2 immune responses, such as those initiated by the powerful allergen House Dust Mite and by application of the vitamin D analogue MC903, are currently being investigated. Our data indicate that dendritic cells can carry a sufficient set of signals to instruct the initiation of Th2 immune responses in secondary lymphoid organs.