A team of researchers from Yonsei University College of Medicine and Severance Hospital has discovered how a specific type of regulatory T cell contributes to the anti-inflammatory effects of allergen-specific immunotherapy in patients with atopic dermatitis. This breakthrough sheds light on the cellular processes behind this widely used allergy treatment.
Atopic dermatitis, a chronic inflammatory skin condition, is often triggered by allergens, such as dust mites, that enter a compromised skin barrier. These allergens activate harmful T cells—like Th1, Th2, and Th17—that release inflammatory substances and sustain chronic immune responses.
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (SIT) is a common treatment for allergic conditions like atopic dermatitis. The therapy works by gradually exposing patients to allergens, training the immune system to reduce its overactive reactions. This process helps activate skin-resident regulatory T cells (Tregs), which play a key role in controlling excessive immune responses.
Led by Professors Park Chang-ook, Park Jung-won, Sohn Myung-hyun, KeLun Zhang, Lee Kwang-hoon, and Kwon Ho-keun, the research team aimed to identify the specific Tregs responsible for SIT’s therapeutic effects.
The team analyzed peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) from both human patients with atopic dermatitis who responded to SIT and from mouse models. Their analysis revealed a specific subset of Tregs that express a transcription factor called RORγt, known for regulating T cell function.
Increased levels of RORγt-expressing Tregs were found in the blood and skin tissues of patients who responded well to SIT. In mouse models, these cells gathered in the skin and displayed strong anti-inflammatory effects by suppressing harmful T cell activity.
Further studies confirmed that RORγt-positive Tregs are critical in mediating SIT’s therapeutic effects by reducing immune responses linked to chronic inflammation in atopic dermatitis.
Professor Park Chang-ook explained, “Understanding the diversity and role of immune cells in the skin is the first step toward creating a human skin immune atlas and improving cell-based immunotherapies. Our findings could help enhance the precision and effectiveness of immune treatments for atopic dermatitis and other inflammatory skin conditions.”
This research paves the way for more targeted and effective treatments for skin allergies.
Related Topics:
