IL-9 regulates allergen-specific Th1 responses in allergic contact dermatitis.

ABSTRACT: The cytokine IL-9, derived primarily from T-helper 9 (Th9) lymphocytes, promotes expansion of the Th2 subset and is implicated in the mechanisms of allergic asthma. We hypothesize that IL-9 also has a role in human allergic contact dermatitis (ACD). To investigate this hypothesis, skin biopsy specimens of positive patch-test sites from non-atopic patients were assayed using quantitative PCR and immunohistochemistry. The cytokines IFN-γ, IL-4, IL-17A, IL-9, and PU.1, a Th9 associated transcription factor, were elevated when compared with paired normal skin. Immunohistochemistry on ACD skin biopsies identified PU.1+ CD3+ and PU.1+ CD4+ cells, consistent with Th9 lymphocytes, in the inflammatory infiltrate. Peripheral blood mononuclear cells from nickel-allergic patients, but not nonallergic

SUBMITTER: Liu J 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC4303591 | biostudies-literature | 2014 Jul

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature