[The role of cytokines in allergic inflammation]

Accepting that there is "T-dependence" in the synthesis of IgE, it is certain that the cytokines, mediators that originate from activated lymphocytes, have an important role to play in allergic inflammation. The factor described by DE WECK, that assists activity of basophiles (BaPA) is identical in man with IL3, also known as Multi-CSF. Synthesis of IgE in vitro (and in vivo in mice) is dependent on IL4 and so T lymphocytes. IL5 and IL6 have a synergistic effect with the latter, though ILN gamma has an inhibitory effect. The two sub-populations TH1 and TH2 specialise, at least in mice, in the synthesis of specific cytokines the actions of which are unknown. The role of IL5 factor in the differentiation of eosinophils is shown.