Using a single vector targeting strategy, we have generated mice with a combined deficiency of interleukin (IL)-4 and IL-13 to clarify their roles in T helper type 2 (Th2) cell responses. Using immunological challenges normally characterized by a Th2-like response, we have compared the responses of the double-deficient mice with those generated by wild-type, IL-4–deficient, and IL-13–deficient mice. Using a pulmonary granuloma model, induced with Schistosoma mansoni eggs, we demonstrate that although eosinophil infiltration, immunoglobulin E, and IL-5 production are reduced in the IL-4–deficient mice and IL-13–deficient mice, they are abolished only in the combined absence of both cytokines. Furthermore, IL-4/13–deficient animals are severely impaired in their ability to expel the gastrointestinal nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. Unexpectedly, N. brasiliensis–infected IL-4/13–deficient mice developed elevated IL-5 and eosinophilia, indicating that compensatory mechanisms exist for the expression of IL-5, although serum IgE remained undetectable. IL-4/13–deficient mice default to a Th1-like phenotype characterized by the expression of interferon γ and the production of IgG2a and IgG2b. We conclude that IL-4 and IL-13 cooperate to initiate rapid Th2 cell–driven responses, and that although their functions overlap, they perform additive roles.

We report that Th2 cell cultures generated using T cells or splenocytes from IL-13-deficient mice produce significantly reduced levels of IL-4, IL-5, and IL-10 compared with wild-type. In contrast, IL-4 and IL-5 production by mast cells stimulated in vitro with PMA, ionomycin, or IgE cross-linking are unaffected. In vitro Th2 cell differentiation cannot be rescued by the addition of exogenous factors, but in vivo antigen challenge and administration of IL-13 can increase Th2-like cytokine responses as can infection with the parasitic nematode Nippostrongylus brasiliensis. IL-13-deficient mice also have lower basal levels of serum IgE and biased antigen-specific immunoglobulin responses. Thus, IL-13 is an important regulator of Th2 commitment and may therefore play a central role in atopy and infectious diseases.