Cytokines in primary biliary cirrhosis

Immunoreactivity to intra- and extracellular antigens is regulated mainly by two different types of T-helper cells, namely T-HI (producing mainly IFN-gamma and IL-2) and T-H2 (producing IL-4, -5, -10). Both types cross-regulate each other THI mechanisms seem to be involved principally in organ-specific autoaggressive disorders, while T-H2 response is an expression of allergic conditions characterized by eosinophilic reactions and increased IgE levels. There are only a few reports dealing with cytokine profiles in patients with primary biliary cirrhosis (PBC). From studies analyzing the cytokine gene expression and cytokines in supernatants of nonstimulated and antigen-specific lymphocytes derived from the affected liver or peripheral blood of PBC patients, there is evidence that, in the course of the disease, predominantly T-H1 cells are activated. However; in view of the eosinophilic reaction observed especially in patients with early PBC, it may well be that a switch from T-H2 to T-H1 occurs. Concerning the regulatory function of T-H1/T-H2 cells, a more refined evaluation of these T-cell subsets could help to provide new insight into the natural course of PBC.