Allergen-specific T-helper 1 cell (Th1 cell)

Allergen-specific T-helper 1 (Th1) cells are a subset of CD4+ T lymphocytes that produce interferon-gamma (IFN-γ) and are characterized by the expression of the transcription factor T-bet (NIH, 2001; YouTube/Cleveland Clinic, 2013). In allergic diseases such as asthma and rhinitis, these cells play a protective role by counterbalancing the pro-allergic Th2 response through a process known as immune deviation (NIH, 2021; NIH, 2001). Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is a primary therapeutic approach that aims to induce these Th1 cells and T-regulatory (Treg) cells to promote long-term immune tolerance (NIH, 2011; NIH, 2021). While Th1 cells help suppress IgE production and eosinophilic inflammation, their over-activation can potentially lead to tissue damage or contribute to autoimmune pathology (Bentham Science, 2001; NIH, 2001). Monitoring Th1-associated biomarkers, such as IFN-γ and CXCR3, is essential for evaluating the efficacy of immunomodulatory treatments (NIH, 2021; NIH, 2023). Drugs such as Monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) and CpG oligodeoxynucleotides are often used as adjuvants in immunotherapy to specifically promote the differentiation and activation of these Th1 cells (NIH, 2023; ResearchGate, 2021).

Other names

Type 1 T helper cellCD4+ Th1 cellAllergen-specific Th1 cellIFN-gamma producing T cell

Induction of immune deviation from a Th2-dominated response to a Th1-dominated response, characterized by increased production of IFN-gamma and suppression of IgE-mediated allergic inflammation.