Circulating CXCR5CD4 T cells participate in the IgE accumulation in allergic asthma.

The pathogenesis of allergic asthma is primarily characterized by abnormality in immunoglobin(Ig)E pathway, suggesting a possible role for follicular helper T cells (Tfh) in the genesis of excessive IgE accumulation. The blood chemokine (C-X-C motif) receptor 5 (CXCR)5CD4 T cells, known as "circulating" Tfh, share common functional characteristics with Tfh cells from germinal centers. The aim of this study was to determine the phenotypes and functions of circulating CXCR5CD4 T cells in allergic asthmatics.

Determinants of rapamycin sensitivity in breast cancer cells.

Purpose: Rapamycin inhibits the serine-threonine kinase mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR), blocking phosphorylation of p70 S6 kinase (S6K1) and 4E-binding protein 1 (4E-BP1) and inhibiting protein translation and cell cycle progression. Rapamycin and its analogues are currently being tested in clinical trials as novel-targeted anticancer agents. Although rapamycin analogues show activity in clinical trials, only some of the treated patients respond.