- Abstract -

DCs play an important role in the initiation of specific immune responses due to their function in determination of antigen-specific T cell responses differentiation and polarization. Although it has been suggested and even shown that other cells, like B cells, macrophages, epithelial cells and even eosinophils, also take part in antigen presentation process, it became clearer in the last years that DCs are the most important APC of the immune system.

Allergic asthma is one of the chronic diseases characterized by fluctuant obstruction of the respiratory airways, mucus hyper secretion and infiltration of respiratory airways wall by Th₂ cells, eosinophils and mastocytes. It is important to clarify the mechanism through which Th₂ cells are activated and respond to otherwise harmless antigens, in order to conceive new therapies for this disorder.

Dendritic cells are the most important antigen-presenting cells in the lungs and are recognized mainly for their extraordinary potential to generate a primary immune response and sensitization to aero-allergens.

Key words. DCs, Der p1, monocytes