Basophils as antigen presenting cells.

Recent reports demonstrate that basophils act as antigen presenting cells to drive Th2 and IgE responses against protease and protein allergens and helminth parasites. Through MHC class II-dependent cognate interactions with CD4(+) T cells in the context of co-stimulatory molecules, and through secretion of IL-4, IL-13 and thymic stromal lymphopoietin, basophils drive antigen-specific Th2 responses. These results have uncovered previously unknown functions of basophils, and should aid in designing novel therapeutic strategies for asthma and allergic conditions.