Immunomodulatory effects of tacrolimus (FK506) for the treatment of allergic diseases.

Tacrolimus has been used to prevent allograft rejection and also used in kidney, liver and heart transplantations. Various preclinical and clinical studies demonstrated that Tacrolimus possess immunomodulatory and anti-inflammatory properties. The mechanism of action of Tacrolimus in allergic diseases involves calcineurin inhibition, and downregulation of T-cell reactivity, IgE degranulation, and its actions on mast cells, dendritic cells, basophils, eosinophils and inhibition of transcription of proinflammatory cytokines. Herein we reviewed the Pharmacotherapeutic mechanism of action of Tacrolimus in the prevention of asthma, atopic dermatitis, and allergic conjunctivitis.