Bet v 1-independent sensitization to major allergens in Fagales pollen: Evidence at the T-cell level.

Background: In birch-dominated areas, allergies to pollen from trees of the order Fagales are considered to be initiated by the major birch pollen allergen Bet v 1. However, the sensitizing activity of Bet v 1-homologs in Fagales pollen might be underestimated. Allergen-specific T-cells are crucial in the sensitization process.

Neutrophils-typical atypical antigen presenting cells?

Neutrophils are the most abundant cells of the immune system and key in combating infections through phagocytosis, reactive oxygen species, neutrophil extracellular traps, and secretion of cytokines and antimicrobial peptides. Beyond this, they may influence the adaptive immune response by modulating CD4 T cell responses. In response to cytokines, mainly GM-CSF, but also IFN-γ and TNF-α, neutrophils express major histocompatibility complex class II molecules on their surface.

Inflammatory immune response in recipients of transcatheter aortic valves.

Objective: Transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) is rapidly replacing cardiac surgery due to its minimal invasiveness and practicality. Midterm immunological studies on the biocompatibility of galactose-alpha-1,3-galactose (α-Gal)-carrying bioprosthetic heart valves for TAVI are not available. In this study we investigated whether bioprosthetic heart valves employed for TAVI augment an α-Gal-specific antibody-dependent and antibody-independent immune response 3 months after TAVI implantation.

Alum triggers infiltration of human neutrophils ex vivo and causes lysosomal destabilization and mitochondrial membrane potential-dependent NET-formation.

Aluminium salts have been used in vaccines for decades. However, the mechanisms underlying their adjuvant effect are still unclear. Neutrophils, the first immune cells at the injection site, can release cellular DNA together with granular material, so-called neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs).

Types of Inner Dialogues and Functions of Self-Talk: Comparisons and Implications.

Intrapersonal communication occurs in several modes including inner dialogue and self-talk. The Dialogical Self Theory (Hermans, 1996) postulates a polyphonic self that is comprised of a multiplicity of inner voices. Internal dialogical activity implies an exchange of thoughts or ideas between at least two so-called "I-positions" representing specific points of view.

T-cell-derived cytokines enhance the antigen-presenting capacity of human neutrophils.

Activated allergen-specific Th2 and Th1 cells release cytokines that transform neutrophils into functional APCs characterized by the expression of HLA-DR and CD58 as well as enhanced survival and antigen uptake, irrespectively of the presence of IL-10, which reduces allergen uptake by neutrophils.

A novel role for neutrophils in IgE-mediated allergy: Evidence for antigen presentation in late-phase reactions.

Background: Neutrophils and allergen-specific T cells accumulate in patients with allergic late-phase reactions (LPRs). Their presence is associated with severe inflammation. Cytokines, such as GM-CSF, IFN-γ, and IL-3, which are typically found in patients with allergic LPRs, have been proposed to convert neutrophils into antigen-presenting cells (APCs).