Mucosal immune response to aeroallergens

We do not yet know everything about the different stages whereby respiratory mucosa recognises and processes allergen. In this paper, we will clarify current data regarding aeroallergen presentation and the pathophysiology of respiratory allergies. Allergens can be described as small airborne, soluble antigens capable of inducing an immunoglobulin E (IgE) response. They penetrate the airway epithelium and are taken in by specialised cells capable not only of capturing but also of digesting and then producing them on their surface with molecules from the major histocompatibility complex. It is this network which activates T-lymphocytes (preferentially Th2), thus stimulating B-lymphocytes (which synthesise IgE). Furthermore, the allergens can activate cells through IgE and their receptors. All of the secreted factors (eg,: lipid mediators, chemokines and cytokines) and the expressed molecules (mainly adhesion molecules) result in the recruitment and activation of numerous cells, a source of airway inflammation. (C) 2001 Editions scientifiques et medicales Elsevier SAS.