Manipulation of T(H)17 responses in pulmonary immunity and disease through vaccination.

Overview

Since the discovery of a novel subset of CD4(+) T helper cells, T(H)17 cells have been implicated in a wide range of human diseases, including autoimmunity, allergic reactions and autoinflammatory diseases. Conversely, it has also been determined that T(H)17 cells are required to mount a protective immune response to a number of pathogens. It has therefore been of great interest to manipulate T(H)17 responses to either prevent disease or promote immunity. Vaccination is a particularly attractive approach for this manipulation. With a focus on the pulmonary mucosal environment, we herein review T(H)17 responses and potential methods for manipulation.