Dendritic cells—the link between innate and adaptive immunity in allergy

Conclusions

During the past years, a large number of studies have provided compelling evidence that dendritic cells are the principal APCs involved in the polarization of T helper cell responses, not only in the T_H1 but also in the T_H2 direction. Although in vitro studies have improved our understanding of the various factors that effect dendritic cell function, we are only beginning to comprehend the complex interactions of environmental and local factors that modulate dendritic cells under natural allergen exposure conditions. Identification and characterization of factors relevant for the T_H2-promoting capacity of dendritic cells in vivo will advance our understanding of the pathogenesis of allergic diseases and possibly provide novel targets for therapeutic or preventive intervention.