Compositions and methods for modulating lymphocyte activity

Abstract

The invention derives from the identification of HVEM as the native ligand for BTLA. The invention provides compositions and methods for modulating BTLA-HVEM interactions and BTLA and HVEM activity, which are useful for modulating immune responses. Agonists and antagonists of the BTLA-HVEM interaction are provided, and methods of treating a variety of conditions through the modulation of immune responses are provided.

1 . A method of modulating an immune response to an antigen, comprising administering a BTLA-HVEM agonist. 
     
     
         2 . The method of  claim 1 , wherein the immune response is reduced or shortened by administering a BTLA-HVEM agonist. 
     
     
         3 . A method of treating asthma, cancer, inflammatory disease, or autoimmune disease, the method comprising administering to a patient in need of such treatment a therapeutically effective amount of a BTLA-HVEM agonist. 
     
     
         4 . A method of  claim 3 , wherein the patient is in need of treatment for an autoimmune disease. 
     
     
         5 . A method of  claim 4 , wherein the patient is in need of treatment for rheumatoid arthritis. 
     
     
         6 . A method of  claim 4 , wherein the patient is in need of treatment for autoimmune throiditis. 
     
     
         7 . A method of  claim 4 , wherein the patient is in need of treatment for lupus. 
     
     
         8 . A method of  claim 4 , wherein the patient is in need of treatment for type 1 diabetes.