Silencing of molecular 'conversation' may help curb severe
allergies Scientists in Sydney have identified a process, a
synergistic encounter between two molecules, that may account
for the extreme allergic reactions some people experience. By
silencing at least one of these molecules, it may be possible to
treat allergies. The molecules, IL-4 and IL-21, are cytokines or
‘chemical messengers’ produced by immune cells known as T cells.
T cells use cytokines to communicate with B cells, which then
make antibodies. When IL-4 and IL-21 are involved in the same
‘conversation’ with a B cell, laboratory experiments show they
stimulate the production of large amounts of the antibody class
known as immunoglobulin E, or IgE. IgE is a very tightly
regulated antibody. Under normal circumstances, it is present in
only very small quantities and protects us against parasites.
Unfortunately, it becomes damaging when the body makes too much.
The findings, made by Danielle Avery and Dr Stuart Tangye from
the Garvan Institute of