Hypersensitivity reactions after respiratory sensitization: effect of intranasal peptides containing T-cell epitopes.

Abstract

BACKGROUND: The intranasal administration of peptides containing T-cell epitopes has been shown to inhibit T-cell and antibody responses of mice injected with allergen, but responses to respiratory sensitization might be regulated differently. OBJECTIVE: This study was designed to examine the effect of intranasal peptide on antigen-induced lung inflammatory responses and delayed hypersensitivity after sensitization by the respiratory mucosa or without sensitization. METHODS: Mice were treated with an intranasal tolerizing regimen of a peptide containing the major T-cell epitope of Der p 1. Delayed hypersensitivity and lung inflammation to challenge with Der p 1 was measured either without fu..