Changes in immune responses to mite antigen sensitized through barrier-disrupted skin with CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide in mice.

CpG-oligodeoxynucleotide (CpG-ODN) plays a critical role in immunity via the augmentation of Th1 and suppression of Th2 responses. We examined here the effect of CpG-ODN on the immune response to mite antigen sensitized through barrier-disrupted skin of human atopic dermatitis (AD) model mouse. Although sensitization with mite antigen induced Th2-dominant immune response, co-administration of CpG-ODN elicited Th1-predominant immune response. In terms of antigen-specific antibody production, the level of IgG2a was increased by CpG-ODN, but not in IgE. These results suggested that administration of CpG-ODN via skin is a simple strategy for patients with diseases like AD, which is characterized by Th2-dominated inflammation.