Polyclonal T-cell and B-cell repertoires specific for grass pollen

The polyclonal T-cell and B-cell repertoires specific for grass pollen represent the collective set of immune receptors (TCRs and BCRs) that recognize allergens from grass species like Phleum pratense (Akdis & Akdis, 2014). In sensitized individuals, these repertoires drive allergic inflammation through Th2 cell activation and IgE production, leading to symptoms of hay fever and asthma (Shamji & Durham, 2017). These repertoires are the functional targets of allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which aims to redirect the immune response toward tolerance. AIT induces the expansion of regulatory T cells (Tregs) and promotes B-cell class switching to IgG4, which competes with IgE for allergen binding (Durham & Shamji, 2023). Therapeutic agents like Timothy grass pollen allergen extracts (e.g., Grastek, Grazax) and multi-grass extracts (e.g., Oralair) are used to modulate these repertoires (FDA, 2014). Success is often measured by a shift in the repertoire's output, specifically an increase in allergen-specific IgG4 and a decrease in basophil sensitivity. This target is complex as it encompasses a vast diversity of individual receptor clones rather than a single molecular entity.

Other names

Grass pollen-specific immune repertoireAllergen-specific TCR and BCR repertoiresGrass pollen-specific lymphocyte repertoires

Induction of immune tolerance through T-cell desensitization, regulatory T-cell (Treg) expansion, and B-cell class switching to IgG4.