Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 30, 2026
Humanized Mediator Release Assay as a Read-Out for Allergen Potency
Published on: June 29, 2021
[The new possibilities to control allergic inflammatory processes]
1Zakład Immunologii Klinicznej Instytutu Centrum Zdrowia Matki Polki oraz Zakład Patofizjologii i Immunologii Uniwersytetu Medycznego w Łodzi.
Abstract:
The development of immune or allergic reactions is involved in the induction of inflammation. The apoptotic elimination of responsible cells prevents or diminishes inflammation. In 2002 S. Brenner, J. Sulston and R. Horovitz were awarded the Nobel Prize for the discovery and description of the mechanisms and role of the preset cell death, which already in 1972 was called apoptosis by J. Kerr. Apoptosis plays an important role in growth and development and also maturation processes of the immune system. It is precisely regulated by appropriate genes. Autoreactive T cells are eliminated in the thymus by apoptosis. The depletion of regulatory T cells by deviated reactions of apoptosis may be responsible for the induction of autoimmunity of allergy in view of absence of peripheral tolerance or impairment of regulatory CD4+ and CD25+ function. Induced or directed apoptosis of certain cells may be a useful adjunct to the therapy of allergic diseases.
Insights
Apoptosis, programmed cell death, is crucial for immune system regulation. Dysfunctional apoptosis can lead to allergies and autoimmunity, but targeted apoptosis may treat allergic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Cell Biology
- Genetics
Background:
- Inflammation is linked to immune and allergic reactions.
- Apoptosis (programmed cell death) eliminates inflammatory cells.
- Apoptosis is vital for immune system development and regulation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the role of apoptosis in immune regulation and allergic diseases.
- To investigate the link between apoptosis dysfunction and autoimmunity/allergy.
- To assess the therapeutic potential of induced apoptosis in allergic conditions.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature on apoptosis and immune responses.
- Analysis of genetic regulation of apoptosis in immune cells.
- Examination of T cell apoptosis in the thymus and periphery.
Main Results:
- Apoptosis regulates immune system maturation and T cell elimination.
- Deviations in apoptosis can cause loss of tolerance, leading to autoimmunity and allergy.
- Impaired function of regulatory T cells (CD4+ and CD25+) is implicated.
Conclusions:
- Apoptosis is a critical mechanism for preventing and resolving inflammation.
- Dysregulated apoptosis contributes to the development of allergic and autoimmune diseases.
- Targeted induction of apoptosis presents a potential therapeutic strategy for allergic diseases.
Related Concept Videos
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...
02:06Allergic Reactions
01:17Drugs Used in Lower Respiratory Disorders: Overview
Bronchodilators, the first step of respiration enhancement, come in various forms, each with its own mechanism...
01:30Hypersensitivities
Types of Hypersensitivities
Hypersensitivity reactions are categorized into four types: Type 1, Type 2, Type 3, and Type 4. Each type has a distinct mechanism...
01:19Antiasthma Drugs: Leukotriene Modifiers
Leukotriene modifiers work through two distinct mechanisms:
01:27Allergic Drug Reactions