Gamma-delta T cell is essential for allergen-induced late asthmatic response in a murine model of asthma.

Abstract

Gamma-delta (gamma-delta) T cells regulate immune responses at mucosal surfaces. Whether they can modify allergen-induced early (EAR) and late airway responses (LAR) is unknown. We have tested the hypothesis that the gamma-delta T cells enhance allergen-induced airway responses in mice. BALB/c wild-type (WT) mice and gamma-delta T cell-deficient (gamma-delta T-cell KO) mice were sensitized by intraperitoneal injection of ovalbumin (OVA) on days 1 and 15, immunized with 1% OVA aerosol on days 29-31, and challenged with 5% OVA or saline on day 33. Enhanced pause (Penh) was measured and BAL fluid was collected after challenge. Serum IgE was measured before challenge. The percentage of interleukin (IL)-4 and interferon (IFN)-gamma producing T cells in splenocytes from sensitized animals was determined by flow cytometry. Both EAR and LAR were observed in OVA-challenged WT mice. LAR but not EAR was inhibited in OVA-challenged gamma-delta T-cell KO mice. Gamma-delta T-cell KO mice showed less eosinophilia in BALF and serum OVA-specific IgE. In the sensitization period, the percentage of IFN-gamma producing alpha-beta T cell in gamma-delta T-cell KO mice was higher than that in WT mice. gamma-delta T cells enhance LAR and airway inflammation but not EAR in this model of asthma.