Allergen-specific effector T-lymphocyte (Dactylis glomerata)

Allergen-specific effector T-lymphocytes recognizing Dactylis glomerata (Orchard grass) pollen epitopes are a specialized population of CD4+ T cells, primarily of the Th2 phenotype, that play a central role in the pathogenesis of grass pollen allergy (PubMed: 15585361). Upon exposure to allergens such as Dac g 1 or Dac g 5, these cells recognize specific T-cell epitopes presented by MHC class II molecules, leading to the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines like IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13 (UniProt: P43213). These cytokines drive IgE production by B cells and recruit eosinophils, resulting in the clinical symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma. In the context of allergen immunotherapy (AIT), these cells are the primary cellular targets for desensitization (NIH: PMC4210655). AIT aims to modulate these effector cells by inducing peripheral T-cell tolerance, characterized by the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and a shift toward a Th1-type immune response. This therapeutic approach reduces the allergic inflammatory cascade and provides long-term relief from symptoms upon subsequent allergen exposure.

Other names

Orchard grass pollen-specific T-lymphocyteCocksfoot-specific CD4+ T cellDac g-specific Th2 cellDactylis glomerata-specific effector T cell

Modulation of the T-cell response via allergen immunotherapy (AIT) to induce peripheral tolerance, involving the induction of regulatory T cells (Tregs), T-cell anergy, and a shift from Th2 to Th1 cytokine profiles (e.g., increased IFN-gamma and IL-10, decreased IL-4 and IL-5) (NIH: PMC4210655).