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T(H)1/T(H)2 immune response profiles differ between atopic children in eastern and western Germany
Harald Renz1, Erika von mutius, Sabina Illi
1Clinical Chemistry and Molecular Diagnostics, University Hospital Marburg, Germany.
Children in eastern Germany show a T(H)0 immune response bias, unlike those in western Germany who exhibit T(H)2 polarization, especially when atopic. This study reveals regional differences in T-cell responses linked to atopic disease prevalence.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Epidemiology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Childhood respiratory allergy prevalence differs between eastern and western Germany.
- Allergic phenotypes are linked to an imbalance in T helper 1 (T(H)1) and T helper 2 (T(H)2) T cell responses.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate potential divergent development of T(H)1/T(H)2 capacity in children from eastern and western Germany.
- To explore regional differences in immune response patterns and their association with atopic disease.
Main Methods:
- Cross-sectional study involving a large sample of children (ages 5-11) from eastern and western Germany.
- Assessment of atopy prevalence and measurement of T(H)1 and T(H)2 cytokine production in blood samples.
- Analysis stratified by number of older siblings to explore environmental influences.
Main Results:
- Children raised in eastern Germany demonstrated a significant T(H)0 immune response bias (>60%), irrespective of atopy status.
- Children from western Germany, particularly those with atopy, displayed a T(H)2-polarized immune response.
Conclusions:
- This study provides the first epidemiological evidence of distinct regional T(H)1/T(H)2 response patterns in Germany.
- Observed regional differences in T-cell responses correlate with variations in atopic disease prevalence.
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