Abstract:
The immune network is modulated by an n-dimensional matrix of genetic, epigenetic
and environmental factors. In neonates, development occurs in an immunologically
sterile environment. Their immune landscape is modelled predominantly by genetic and
ethno-geographical factors. These inherent variations give rise to populations of
immune subsets that are both tightly and loosely regulated. One such human population
study, from 6 villages near Pune, showed interesting trends in frequencies of B, T, and
innate cell subsets. Moreover, the data also presented correlations between frequencies
of immune subsets that developmentally belong to distinct lineages, therefore raising
questions about probable “common” interacting pathways. Conversely, post infection in
vertebrates, a febrile response is generated on immunological challenge. Previous
reports have demonstrated that hyperthermia augments immune responses of the
innate and adaptive arms. However, the effect of temperature on T-cell fate
determination is not known. The data presented here, suggests that the Th2 response is
likely to be affected more significantly than the Th1 response at raised temperatures.
Further quantitative studies need to be undertaken to decipher the molecular players
that sense temperature fluctuations and activate downstream signaling in this pathway.
