Stability of Th1 and Th2 populations

Using an in vitro model for the development of IFN-y-producIng(Th1) and IL-4-produclng (Th1) cells from CD4 T lymphocytesexpressing a transgenlc TCR, we show that IL-12 and IL-4 arethe most potent stimuli for the differentiation of naive T cellsto effector populations. When combinations of cytokines arepresent during T cell priming, the effect of IL-4 Is dominant.Furthermore, differentiated Th1 cells can be converted intoIL-4 producers by exposure to IL-4, but the Th2 phenotype Isnot reversible. The stability of Th2 populations may limit theability to regulate Th2-domlnant responses In pathologic situations.