Beneficial effects of Galectin-9 on allergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy in a Dermatophagoides farinae -induced mouse model of chronic asthma

• DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2016.10.007
• Publication Date: 2016-11-19T15:01:32Z
• Authors: Masaki Ikeda; Shigeki Katoh; Hiroki Shimizu; Akira Hasegawa; Katsuyo Ohashi-Doi; Mikio Oka
• Keywords: Sublingual Immunotherapy; Slit; Sublingual administration; Allergen Immunotherapy; Galectin; Allergic asthma

Allergen-specific sublingual immunotherapy is a potential disease-modifying treatment for allergic asthma. Galectin-9 (Gal-9), β-galactoside-binding protein with various biologic effects, acts as an immunomodulator in excessive immunologic reactions by expanding regulatory T cells (Treg) and enhancing transforming growth factor (TGF)-β signaling. We investigated the efficacy of sublingually administered Gal-9 adjuvant to specific allergen Dermatophagoides farinae (Df)-induced mouse model chronic BALB/c mice were intranasally sensitized Df extract 5 days/week weeks, then Df-allergen 2 weeks (5 days/week). Three days after final treatment, challenged extract. The early asthmatic response (EAR) was evaluated min last challenge. Airway hyperresponsiveness (AHR) assayed bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) performed 24 h Serum IgE cytokine levels, number inflammatory BAL fluid (BALF) analyzed. Sublingual presence Gal-9, but not alone, significantly reduced AHR; EAR; eosinophils interleukin-13 BALF; serum levels. BALF TGF-β1 levels increased compared alone. Treg depletion blocked inhibitory effects on EAR, AHR, eosinophilic airway inflammation, Df-specific suppressed exhibited beneficial allergen-specific Df-induced asthma, possibly Gal-9-induced production lung.