Regulatory T cells as potential immunotherapy in allergy

CD4 regulatory T cells are fundamental for the induction and maintenance of immunological tolerance to self and foreign-antigens, including allergens. Here we discuss recent advances in the field of regulatory T cells and how this knowledge can be exploited to treat and prevent allergy.

Current research suggest that naturally occurring CD4CD25 regulatory T cells together with inducible IL-10-producing CD4 regulatory T cells actively control allergic responses and that their function or numbers may contribute to the development or progression of allergy. Indeed, successful treatment of allergy by allergen-specific immunotherapy may depend on the induction of IL-10 secreting CD4 T cells. Work has begun to reveal the impact of various pharmaceutical treatments on naturally occurring CD25 regulatory T cells. In addition, recent findings point to an important role for toll-like receptors in the tuning of regulatory T cell function and homeostasis. This may link the hygiene hypothesis to regulatory T cells and open up new possibilities for early intervention in allergic disease.

The identification of a role for regulatory T cells in allergic disease has provided a host of new therapeutic possibilities, with the potential prospect of safe and long-term alleviation of allergic diseases.