The Role of Regulatory T Cells in Allergic Diseases: Collegium Internationale Allergologicum (CIA) Update 2024

Abstract

<b><i>Background:</i></b> Allergy represents a major health problem of increasing prevalence worldwide with a high socioeconomic impact. Our knowledge on the molecular mechanisms underlying allergic diseases and their treatments has significantly improved over the last years. The generation of allergen-specific regulatory T cells (Tregs) is crucial in the induction of healthy immune responses to allergens, preventing the development and worsening of allergic diseases. <b><i>Summary:</i></b> In the last decades, intensive research has focused on the study of the molecular mechanisms involved in Treg development and Treg-mediated suppression. These mechanisms are essential for the induction of sustained tolerance by allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) after treatment discontinuation. Compelling experimental evidence demonstrated altered suppressive capacity of Tregs in patients suffering from allergic rhinitis, allergic asthma, food allergy, or atopic dermatitis, as well as the restoration of their numbers and functionality after successful AIT. <b><i>Key Message:</i></b> The better understanding of the molecular mechanisms involved in Treg generation during allergen tolerance induction might well contribute to the development of novel strategies for the prevention and treatment of allergic diseases.