Detection of IL-9 producing T cells in the PBMCs of allergic asthmatic patients

BACKGROUND: Interleukin-9 (IL-9) was reported as an active participant in the pathogenesis of allergic asthma. This study aimed to investigate the major source ofIL-9 and its effect on interferon γ (IFN-γ) and immunoglobulin (Ig) secretion by B cells. METHODS: We isolated peripheral blood mononuclear cells from children with allergic asthma and healthy children. IL-9, IL-4 and IFN-γ expression were detected by ELISA, ELISpot and Flowcytometry. Expression of transcription factor PU.1 was measured by Western Blot. We evaluated the effect of IL-9 on B cell activation and Ig production. RESULTS: Results showed that compared with healthy children, levels of IL-9, IL-4 and PU.1 were elevated and levels of IFN-γ were lower in children with allergic asthma. IL-9-expressing CD4(+) T cells did not co-express IL-4. Exogenous IL-9 inhibited IFN-γ production in a dose-dependent manner. Antigen-specific Th9 cells existed in children with house dust mite allergic asthma. IL-9 up-regulated expression of CD69 and CD25 on B cells and combination of IL-9 and IL-4 enhanced IgE production. CONCLUSIONS: In conclusion, our results showed that Th9 cells may be the major source of IL-9 in children with allergic asthma. In these patients, IL-9 impairs IFN-γ production and synergistically promotes IL-4-induced IgE secretion.