Epithelium: the interplay between innate and Th2 immunity

Immunol Cell Biol. 2010 Mar-Apr;88(3):257-68. doi: 10.1038/icb.2009.113. Epub 2010 Jan 12.

Abstract

Mucosal epithelium functions not only as a physical barrier, but also as a regulator of innate and adaptive immune responses against foreign substances and microorganisms. In particular, epithelial cells have been directly implicated in Th2 responses, serving as a critical interface between innate immune responses and Th2 immunity. Emerging studies have revealed the cellular and molecular mechanisms by which the epithelium modulates Th2 responses through the production of a group of epithelial-derived Th2-driving cytokines, including interleukin (IL)-25, IL-33, and thymic stromal lymphopoietin. These epithelial-derived Th2-driving cytokines execute a regulatory function of the epithelium on mucosal immunity by promoting Th2 responses and maintaining the balance of host immune homeostasis and defense against various pathogens. Dysregulation of these Th2-driving cytokines can lead to detrimental Th2-dependent inflammatory responses, often manifested in various forms of allergic and inflammatory diseases.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Cytokines / immunology
  • Epithelium / immunology*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology
  • Immunity, Innate*
  • Immunity, Mucosal*
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Interleukin-17 / immunology
  • Interleukin-33
  • Interleukins / immunology
  • Th2 Cells / immunology*
  • Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin

Substances

  • Cytokines
  • IL25 protein, human
  • IL33 protein, human
  • Interleukin-17
  • Interleukin-33
  • Interleukins
  • Thymic Stromal Lymphopoietin