ABSTRACT
AIM: To compare the immunological and clinical changes induced by allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) using different adjuvants. MATERIALS & METHODS: Olea europaea pollen-sensitized mice were treated with olea plus aluminum hydroxide, calcium phosphate, monophosphoryl lipid A (MPL) or immunostimulatory sequences (ISS). RESULTS: Aluminum hydroxide seems to drive initially to a Th2-type response. Bacteria-derived adjuvants (MPL and ISS) skew the immune response toward Th1 and Treg pathways. Specific-IgE production was lower after AIT with MPL and ISS. Moreover, IgG2a production significantly increased in ISS-treated mice. Bacteria-derived adjuvants also improved the Th1 cytokine response due to IFN-γ higher secretion. In addition, they improved bronchial hyper-reactivity and lung inflammation. CONCLUSION: Bacteria-derived adjuvants may enhance the efficacy of AIT.
