Methods and molecules for modulating an immune response

Abstract

A molecule capable of potentiating immune responses and modifying existing states of immune responsiveness is described. Also described are compositions containing the molecule, as well as methods for using the molecule and the compositions to enhance immune responses, to enhance DC function, to modify an existing state of immune responsiveness, to immunize individuals, or to treat or inhibit conditions such as allergic asthma.

1 . A method for inhibiting a Th2 response in a mammal, said method comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a composition comprising a B7-DC cross-linking molecule. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said B7-DC cross-linking molecule is an antibody. 
     
     
         3 . The method of  claim 2 , wherein said antibody recognizes a B7-DC epitope comprising a glycosylation site. 
     
     
         4 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein said composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. 
     
     
         5 . The method of  claim 1 , further comprising the step of monitoring said mammal for a Th2 response. 
     
     
         6 . The method of  claim 5 , wherein said monitoring comprising measuring the level of IL-4 or IL-5. 
     
     
         7 . A method for modulating a state of immune responsiveness in a mammal, said method comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a composition comprising a B7-DC cross-linking molecule. 
     
     
         8 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein said B7-DC cross-linking molecule is an antibody. 
     
     
         9 . The method of  claim 8 , wherein said antibody recognizes a B7-DC epitope comprising a glycosylation site. 
     
     
         10 . The method of  claim 7 , wherein said composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier. 
     
     
         11 . A method for modifying dendritic cell function in a mammal, said method comprising administering to said mammal an effective amount of a composition comprising a B7-DC cross-linking molecule. 
     
     
         12 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein said B7-DC cross-linking molecule is an antibody. 
     
     
         13 . The method of  claim 12 , wherein said antibody recognizes a B7-DC epitope comprising a glycosylation site. 
     
     
         14 . The method of  claim 11 , wherein said composition further comprises a pharmaceutically acceptable carrier.