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We have analyzed the antibody repertoire from normo- and hypercholesterolemic subjects to investigate how it can be related to macrophage-dependent modification of low-density lipoproteins, in comparison to the commonly used copper-oxidized LDL. Preexisting natural antibodies in plasma from normo- and hypercholesterolemic individuals were tested for their reactivity against copper ion oxidized LDL and LDL modified by macrophages. A crosswise comparison between these two antigen preparations demonstrated a different antibody repertoire in normo- and hypercholesterolemic patients. This study suggest that the search for antibodies that can influence the progression or regression of an atherosclerotic process has to take into account the process by which LDL is modified, and the repertoire of antibodies that is generated in the normal population, in comparison to that with, or at risk for, coronary artery diseases.

Allergic asthma results from an intrapulmonary allergen-driven Th2 response and is characterized by intermittent airway obstruction, airway hyperreactivity, and airway inflammation. An inverse association between allergic asthma and microbial infections has been observed. And this observation constitutes the base of the hygiene hypothesis. Here we discuss the hygiene hypothesis with emphasis on regulatory cells. We review the evidence for the emergence of regulatory cells, such as CD4(+)CD25(+) T cells during infection or during induction of tolerance by mucosal antigen administration. The review focuses also on the emergence of activated CD8(+) T cells and macrophages, induced by infections or microbial products, which also can result in the suppression of asthma. The underlying mechanisms by which regulatory immune cells suppress asthma may represent novel unconventional strategies controlling asthma.