Divergent expression patterns of IL-4 and IL-13 define unique functions in allergic immunity

Nat Immunol. 2011 Dec 4;13(1):58-66. doi: 10.1038/ni.2182.

Abstract

Interleukin 4 (IL-4) and IL-13 are critical for responses to parasitic helminthes. We used genetically engineered reporter mice to assess the temporal and spatial production of these cytokines in vivo. In lymph nodes, IL-4, but not IL-13, was made by follicular helper T cells (T(FH) cells). In contrast, tissue type 2 helper T cells (T(H)2 cells) produced both cytokines. There was also divergent production of IL-4 and IL-13 among cells of the innate immune system, whereby basophils produced IL-4, whereas innate helper type 2 cells (Ih2 cells) produced IL-13. IL-13 production by T(H)2 and Ih2 cells was dependent on the transcription factor GATA-3, which was present in large amounts in these cells, and in contrast to the small amount of GATA-3 in T(FH) cells and basophils. The distinct localization and cellular expression of IL-4 and IL-13 explains their unique roles during allergic immunity.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Basophils / immunology
  • GATA3 Transcription Factor / metabolism
  • Gene Expression
  • Hypersensitivity / genetics
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Immunity, Innate
  • Interleukin-13 / biosynthesis*
  • Interleukin-13 / genetics
  • Interleukin-4 / biosynthesis*
  • Interleukin-4 / genetics
  • Mice
  • Mice, Inbred BALB C
  • Mice, Transgenic
  • Protein Transport
  • STAT6 Transcription Factor / metabolism
  • Strongylida Infections / immunology
  • T-Lymphocyte Subsets / immunology
  • Th2 Cells / immunology

Substances

  • GATA3 Transcription Factor
  • Interleukin-13
  • STAT6 Transcription Factor
  • Interleukin-4