Review of immune tolerance induction in hemophilia A

There has been progress in research clarifying the mechanisms that mediate tolerance induction using ITI, both from patient studies and from research in cell culture and animal-based models. Peripheral tolerance induction to FVIII involves the apoptosis of antigen-specific B-memory cells, anergy induction in antigen-specific effector T-cells (Teff), induction of regulatory T-cells (Treg) and the formation of anti-idiotypic antibodies. In this review hemophilia A will be used as an example to discuss current concepts of tolerance induction as they are applied in patient care. Where possible, we will extrapolate tolerance findings in hemophilia A to related pathways known to affect auto-immune disorders or allergy.