Costimulation plays a crucial role in the immune response associated with allergic asthma.

What is it about?

In this comprehensive review we address fundamental properties of B7 and semaphorin family members and present a recent view on their roles in allergic asthmatic responses.

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Why is it important?

Allergic asthma is primarily driven by CD4+ T cells of the Th2 phenotype. The activation of these T cells requires two signals: The first signal is the recognition of allergen-derived peptides presented by antigen-presenting cells (APCs) in the context of major histocompatibility complex (MHC) class II molecules. The second signal is provided by costimulatory molecules on the surface of APCs interacting with their receptors on T cells. Key Costimulatory Molecules: Several families of costimulatory molecules are involved in this process: B7 Family: Includes molecules like B7-1 (CD80) and B7-2 (CD86), which interact with CD28 on T cells to promote activation, or with CTLA-4 to inhibit it. Semaphorins: These molecules also play a role in fine-tuning the immune response. Immune Regulation: The balance between activating and inhibitory signals from costimulatory molecules is essential for regulating the immune response. This balance can influence the severity and progression of allergic asthma.

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