REGULATION OF MUCOSAL IGA RESPONSES IN-VIVO - CYTOKINES AND ADJUVANTS

The predominance of IgA plasma cells at mucosal sites reflects a combi nation of the selective localisation and vigorous proliferation after extravasation of IgA plasma cell precursors, Experiments are described here which demonstrate that post-extravasation events leading to IgA precursor cell retention, proliferation and antibody secretion are und er cytokine control, This has led to investigation of therapeutic inte rventions to modify cytokine availability to maximise mucosal vaccinat ion responses and correct IgA deficiencies.