Thymic stromal lymphopoietin and allergic dermatoses

Allergic dermatoses are a group of diseases characterized by Th2 predominance, eosinophilic infiltration and IgE elevation. The imbalance of Th1ATh2 is an important pathogenesis of allergic dermatoses. Thymic stromal lymphopoietin (TSLP) is an interleukin 7-like cytokine, and has attracted a lot of attention for its distinct roles in allergic dermatoses. Up to now, it has been regarded as a general switch or mater regulator in the triggering of Th2-driven inflammation. Here, the authors review the structure of TSLP and its receptor, how TSLP induces Th2 cell responses and the crucial role of TSLP in allergic dermatoses. Key words: Thymic stromal lymphopoietin;  Dermatitis, atopic;  Allergic;  Th2 cells