Akdis CA, Akdis M. Mechanisms of allergen-specific immunotherapy. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 2011; 127:18-27; quiz: 28-29. Abstract
PubMed ID (PMID): 21211639
Reprint: C. Akdis
Comments: Like the previous review published in 2007 by the same authors in this journal, this article is remarkable because it provides a clear and precise digest on the known or suspected mechanisms of allergen-specific immunotherapy (ASIT). Such mechanisms now include:
1. an early mast cell and basophil suppression-related desensitization effect (as observed in rush immunotherapy)2. an induction of regulatory T-cells
1. an early mast cell and basophil suppression-related desensitization effect (as observed in rush immunotherapy)2. an induction of regulatory T-cells
3. an induction of peripheral T-cell tolerance to allergens
3. a late modulation of allergen-specific IgE and IgG responses In addition to conventional immunotherapy, sublingual and peptide immunotherapy and the use of various adjuvants are discussed herein. Finally, one can find a summary box at the end of the paper, which highlights proven mechanisms of ASIT and questions that still need to be answered. This is a recommended review for everybody: residents, allergologists or for those who still believe that ASIT is just an empirical therapy....
Recommended by: Pascal Prélaud and Ana Rostaher, Clinique Advetia, Paris, France
