The role of the FOXP3 transcription factor in the immune regulation of allergic asthma

Curr Allergy Asthma Rep. 2005 Sep;5(5):356-61. doi: 10.1007/s11882-005-0006-z.

Abstract

Unbalanced immune reactions against allergens are caused by Th2 cells, which are the basis of immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated symptoms of allergy and asthma. Although Th2 cells are essential for allergy, they are not sufficient to cause disease, because regulatory T cells (Tregs) control their activity and expansion. Therefore, Tregs are assumed to play an important role not only in the sensitization but also in established allergic disease under therapy. A key factor of Tregs is FOXP3, which, upon expression, is sufficient to induce regulatory T-cell phenotypes. The initiation and suppressive function of FOXP3 and Tregs in the context of allergic asthma are discussed in this review.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't
  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Asthma / etiology
  • Asthma / immunology*
  • Asthma / metabolism*
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors / metabolism*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / complications*
  • Immune System / physiopathology*
  • T-Lymphocytes, Regulatory

Substances

  • FOXP3 protein, human
  • Forkhead Transcription Factors