Figure 6
Expression and regulation of S100A7 in allergic rhinitis. S100A7 is produced by airway epithelial cells (AEC) upon microbial exposure and triggers activation of immune cells, including neutrophils and mononuclear cells. The bactericidal properties of S100A7 and the activation of the cellular immunity mount an effective antimicrobial response. During seasonal allergic rhinitis, the Th2-driven immune response represses the production of epithelial S100A7, hence increasing the likelihood of microbial colonization or infection.