Functional and phenotypic differences of monocyte-derived dendritic cells from allergic and nonallergic patients.

BACKGROUND

Several studies suggest a role for dendritic cell in the pathogenesis of allergic disease.

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to compare function and phenotype of monocyte-derived dendritic cells (MoDC) from allergic asthmatic patients and healthy control subjects.

METHODS

MoDCs were developed by incubating adherent monocytes for 5 days with IL-4 and granulocyte-macrophage colony-stimulating factor. Phenotype was assessed with flow cytometry, and the antigen-presenting function was assessed with the allogeneic mixed leukocyte reaction and an autologous specific antigen presentation.

RESULTS

The morphology of the MoDCs was characteristic for immature dendritic cells. MoDCs from allergic asthmatic patients showed phenotypic differences in the expression of HLA-DR, CD11b, and the high-affinity receptor for IgE. A clearly enhanced accessory potential of MoDCs from atopic asthmatic patients in the mixed leukocyte reaction was also shown. Moreover, house dust mite-specific T-cell proliferation was increased.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests the involvement of dendritic cells in the pathogenesis of atopic asthma by an increased immunostimulatory capacity of MoDCs.