Lung dendritic cell–epithelial cell crosstalk in Th2 responses to allergens

Dendritic cells (DC) have been shown to be responsible for the initiation and maintenance of adaptive Th2 responses in asthma. It is increasingly clear that DC functions are strongly influenced by crosstalk with neighboring cells like epithelial cells, which can release a number of innate cytokines promoting Th2 responses. Clinically relevant allergens often interfere directly or indirectly with the innate immune functions of airway epithelial cells and DC. A better understanding of these interactions might lead to a better prevention and ultimately to new treatments for asthma.

► Allergens are recognized by PRRs on lung dendritic cells and epithelial cells. ► Allergen-activated epithelial cells produce dendritic cell-instructing cytokines. ► Lung epithelial cells control the outcome of the response induced by DCs.