Dendritic cells revisited in human allergic rhinitis and asthma.

The role of dendritic cells (DCs) in airway allergy has been studied for 15 years; recent data has highlighted the cross talk with airway epithelial cells and environmental factors (allergens, virus) during the inception and exacerbation of allergic asthma. Although murine models have provided key information, it remains uncertain to what extent these basic mechanisms take place in human allergic disease, notably with regard to different clinical phenotypes. In the present review, we discuss new evidence regarding mechanisms of DC regulation in the mouse which could be important in human asthma. Finally, after discussing the effects of current therapies on DC biology, we focus on pathways that could represent targets for future therapies.