Germinal-centre reactions in allergic inflammation

Trends Immunol. 2006 Oct;27(10):446-52. doi: 10.1016/j.it.2006.08.007. Epub 2006 Sep 1.

Abstract

Primary and secondary immune responses in the germinal centres of lymphoid organs have been studied in the past. There is now compelling evidence of a third stage in the immune response, in 'tertiary lymphoid organs' that develop at sites of chronic inflammation in response to persistent local antigen challenge. Germinal-centre-like reactions are well-documented in the target organs of autoimmune diseases. Here, we review recent evidence that they also occur at sites of allergic inflammation.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Germinal Center / immunology*
  • Germinal Center / pathology
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Hypersensitivity / pathology
  • Immunoglobulin Class Switching
  • Immunoglobulin E / biosynthesis
  • Immunoglobulin E / genetics
  • Inflammation / immunology
  • Inflammation / metabolism
  • Inflammation / pathology

Substances

  • Immunoglobulin E