T regulatory cells in contact hypersensitivity

PURPOSE OF REVIEW: The review summarizes the recent investigations focused on T regulatory cells in hapten diseases. RECENT FINDINGS: Multiple mechanisms ensure tolerance to small chemicals penetrating the skin. Among these, specific T regulatory cells play a major role in controlling harmful immune responses to environmental antigens. Most of the T regulatory cells involved in this process belongs to the CD4 subset and suppress hapten-specific immune response through the release of IL-10 and through direct interaction with effector T cells, blocking their function. SUMMARY: Methods for in-vitro and in-vivo expansion of specific T regulatory cells may represent an innovative approach for the cure of contact hypersensitivity.