The present invention relates to methods and compositions for the
treatment and diagnosis of immune disorders, especially T helper
lymphocyte-related disorders. In particular, the invention describes a
gene known in the art, alternatively, as ST2, T1 and Fit-1, and referred
to herein as the 103 gene. The 103 gene is disclosed herein to be
differentially expressed in TH2 cells and not in TH1 cells. Further, the
103 gene product is demonstrated herein to be an important modulator of
TH2 and TH2-like immune response both in vitro and in vivo. Thus, the 103
gene, its gene products and antibodies that specifically bind thereto can
be used diagnostically or as targets for therapeutic intervention in the
treatment of a variety of immune disorders.In this regard, the invention
provides methods for the identification and therapeutic use of compounds
for treatments of immune disorders, especially TH cell
subpopulation-related disorders and including TH2 and TH2-like disorders
(i.e., disorders associated with a TH2 or TH2-like mediated immune
response) such as atopic conditions (e.g., allergy and asthma).
Additionally, methods are provided for the diagnostic evaluation and
prognosis of TH cell subpopulation related disorders, for the
identification of subjects exhibiting a predisposition to such
conditions, for monitoring patients undergoing clinical evaluation for
the treatment of such disorders and for monitoring the efficacy of
compounds used in clinical trials.