Advances in basic and clinical immunology in 2006

This article reviews the progress in the field of basic and clinical immunology in 2006, focusing on the articles published in the Journal. The role of Toll-like receptors in the immune response was explored in detail in several articles. The knowledge gained in these investigations is being used to develop strategies that enhance the immunogenicity of vaccines to prevent infectious diseases and to have an immunomodulatory effect on allergic diseases. Other components of the innate immunity reported on were the recognition of allergens with lipid-derived motifs by CD1d-restricted T cells and the role of dendritic cells in the development of an allergic response. More than 120 primary immunodeficiencies were defined at a molecular level, and biological agents such as TNF-α antagonists and IFN-α were shown to have therapeutic use. New anti-HIV drugs that block cell entry were proven to be effective, thus offering alternative therapies to respond to the development of multidrug-resistant HIV strains. The modern understanding of immunologic concepts is helping to elucidate the mechanisms of defense against viruses, bacteria, and parasites; as a result, strategies to improve management and prevention continue to emerge.

Key words: Immunology, Toll-like receptors, CD1d T cells, immunomodulators, primary immunodeficiencies, drug allergy, angioedema, vaccines

Abbreviations used: CF, Cystic fibrosis, CVID, Common variable immunodeficiency, HAE, Hereditary angioedema, NK, Natural killer, PGE2, Prostaglandin E2, PID, Primary immunodeficiency, SEB, Staphylococcal exotoxin B, TLR, Toll-like receptor