T-cell epitope mapping

Abstract

To provide a general overview of T-cell epitope mapping and its relevance to physicians practicing allergy/ immunology. The PubMed database was searched for articles published from January 1, 1990, through December 31, 2008, for primary and review articles on T-cell epitope mapping. The keywords searched were CD4 T cell, major histocompatibility complex class II, epitope mapping, methods, and allergen. Specific articles on commonly used mapping techniques were retrieved, along with articles on the use of epitope mapping in models of allergy. A synopsis of T-cell epitope mapping, with emphasis on the relevance to allergy is presented. T-cell epitope mapping studies have already allowed the identification of several major T-cell allergens. Improvement in T-cell epitope mapping techniques and in computer algorithms capable of predicting peptides recognized by CD4 T cells will help refine our understanding of the immune responses to allergens and may also offer the possibility of peptide therapy in the future.