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Semin Respir Crit Care Med 2004; 25(1): 3-10
DOI: 10.1055/s-2004-822300
Copyright © 2004 by Thieme Medical Publishers, Inc., 333 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10001, USA.

Role and Development of Th1/Th2 Immune Responses in the Lungs

Amy C. Herring1 , Yadira Hernández1 , Gary B. Huffnagle1 , Galen B. Toews1
  • 1Department of Internal Medicine-Pulmonary Division, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
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Publication History

Publication Date:
12 March 2004 (online)

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The development of T helper 1 (Th1) and Th2 responses is dependent on the cells and early signals of the innate immune system. Following inhalation of pulmonary pathogens, lung antigen-presenting cells (APCs) ingest the microbe, begin to process antigen, and migrate to peripheral lymphoid tissues (i.e., LALNs). It is in the lymph node that the APC-T cell interaction takes place; therefore, the microenvironment of the lymph node significantly influences the developing T cell response (Th1 vs Th2). Several factors can determine the nature of the T cell response, including cytokines, chemokines, microbial virulence factors, and dendritic cell phenotype. A shift in the Th1/Th2 balance in the lungs can result in chronic infection, allergic disease, and immunopathology. This review discusses the mechanisms of developing Th1/Th2 pulmonary responses, the counterregulation of Th1/Th2 immunity, and the consequences of immune deviation in the lungs.

KEYWORDS

Innate immunity - Th1/Th2 - immune regulation

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Galen B ToewsM.D. 

Department of Internal Medicine-Pulmonary Division

6301 MSRB III-box 0642, 1150 W. Medical Center Dr., University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

MI 48109-0642

Email: gtoews@umich.edu

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