Selective development of a strong Th2 cytokine profile in high‐risk children who develop atopy: risk factors and regulatory role of IFN‐γ, IL‐4 and IL‐10

Abstract

Our data indicate that the first 6 months of life represent a critical time window for the initiation of immunological changes resulting in the development of atopy. The selective development of a Th2 cytokine profile in high-risk children who develop atopy is due to increased production of Th2 cytokines, possibly caused by impaired allergen-induced IFN-gamma production in the neonatal period. Furthermore, the decreased allergen-induced IL-10 levels observed in the atopic children at 12 months of age may result in a lack of down-regulation of the inflammatory process.