[New perspectives on the pathogenesis of rhinitis]

G Batteriol Virol Immunol. 1991 Jan-Dec;84(1-12):107-24.
[Article in Italian]

Abstract

The division of T cells into distinct subsets (Th-1 and Th-2), based upon cytokine production, is a major advance in understanding the immune reactivities particularly those associated with allergy. This report summarizes some of the highlights on pathogenesis of allergic rhinitis. Th-2 cells, driven by IL-4, play an important role in allergic reactions inducing IgE switching in B cells and proliferation of mastocytes. In addition, by interaction with IL-5, Th-2 lymphocytes promotes eosinophil growth. By contrast, Th-1 cells antagonize Th-2 activity by IFN-gamma production. Finally IL-10, produced by Th-2, blocks the effects of the cytokines elaborated by Th-1. Recent results of this rapidly expanding area of research provide the background for this review. The intricate connections between Th-1, Th-2, the endothelial cells of the nose vessels and stromal cells are discussed.

Publication types

  • English Abstract
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Allergens / adverse effects
  • Animals
  • CD4-Positive T-Lymphocytes / immunology
  • Cytokines / physiology
  • Hematopoiesis
  • Humans
  • Macrophages / physiology
  • Mast Cells / physiology
  • Models, Biological*
  • Nasal Mucosa / physiopathology
  • Nasal Mucosa / ultrastructure
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / epidemiology
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / etiology*
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Perennial / immunology
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / epidemiology
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / etiology*
  • Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology

Substances

  • Allergens
  • Cytokines