| abstract |
The present invention provides novel peptides for treating allergic diseases such as celiac disease. The peptides bind MHC glycoproteins associated with celiac disease and block T cell activation associated with the disease. The peptides may block MHC-antigenic peptide complex formation. Alternatively, the peptides may be T cell antagonist peptides and form inhibitory complexes which competitively inhibit binding between MHC-antigenic peptide complexes which induce activation of T cells associated with celiac disease. Methods for identifying peptides of the present invention are also disclosed. |