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La Tunisie Medicale Mar 2024Several clinical and epidemiological data point to a possible link between smoking exposure and contact dermatitis (CD).
INTRODUCTION
Several clinical and epidemiological data point to a possible link between smoking exposure and contact dermatitis (CD).
AIMS
To identify the clinical and epidemiological differences of CD in smoking and non-smoking subjects, and to determine the influence of smoking on the allergological profile of CD.
METHODS
Retrospective descriptive study who consulted the Department of Occupational Medicine and Occupational Pathology of the Farhat Hached University Hospital of Sousse (Tunisia) during a period of 8 years for exploration of CD and who were tested with the European Standard Battery (ESB).
RESULTS
A total of 767 patients were enrolled during the study period, 40% of whom were smokers. The group of smokers was characterized by a male predominance (p=10-3) and a greater professional seniority compared to non-smokers (p=0.01). Personal history of atopy was predominant in non-smokers (p=0.02). Among the ESB allergens, there was a significant association between smoking and CD due to metals (chromium, cobalt) and conservatives. After binary logistic regression, the variables associated with smoking exposure were male gender (OR=12.12 ; 95% CI=[6.07 - 24.21]; p=10-3), Kathon CG allergy (OR=3.69 ; 95% CI=[1.24 - 10.81]; p=0.018), and right hand involvement (OR= 2.83; 95% CI=[1.29 - 6.17]; p=0.005).
CONCLUSION
Our study revealed an effect of smoking on the clinical and allergological characteristics of CD.
Topics: Humans; Male; Female; Dermatitis, Allergic Contact; Retrospective Studies; Smoking; Allergens; Occupations
PubMed: 38545712
DOI: 10.62438/tunismed.v102i3.4226 -
Genes Nov 2023Allergy to shellfishes, including mollusks and crustaceans, is a growing health concern worldwide. Crustacean shellfish is one of the "Big Eight" allergens designated by... (Review)
Review
Allergy to shellfishes, including mollusks and crustaceans, is a growing health concern worldwide. Crustacean shellfish is one of the "Big Eight" allergens designated by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is the major cause of food-induced anaphylaxis. Shrimp is one of the most consumed crustaceans triggering immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergic reactions. Over the past decades, the allergen repertoire of shrimp has been unveiled based on conventional immunodetection methods. With the availability of genomic data for penaeid shrimp and other technological advancements like transcriptomic approaches, new shrimp allergens have been identified and directed new insights into their expression levels, cross-reactivity, and functional impact. In this review paper, we summarize the current knowledge on shrimp allergens, as well as allergens from other crustaceans and mollusks. Specific emphasis is put on the genomic information of the shrimp allergens, their protein characteristics, and cross-reactivity among shrimp and other organisms.
Topics: United States; Animals; Humans; Allergens; Shellfish; Mollusca; Hypersensitivity; Penaeidae; Genomics
PubMed: 38136967
DOI: 10.3390/genes14122145 -
Nutrients Jul 2023allergy is an emerging pathological condition in both general and pediatric populations with a wide range of symptoms linked to variable molecular patterns, justifying... (Review)
Review
allergy is an emerging pathological condition in both general and pediatric populations with a wide range of symptoms linked to variable molecular patterns, justifying systemic and cross-reactions with other allergens (i.e., latex, pollen, and fruit). Skin prick test (SPT), specific serum IgE (Act d 1, Act d 2, Act d 5, Act d 8, and Act d 10) directed against five out of thirteen molecular allergens described in the literature, and oral test challenge with are available for defining diagnosis. The management is similar to that of other food allergies, mostly based on an elimination diet. Although kiwi allergy has been on the rise in recent years, few studies have evaluated the clinical characteristics and methods of investigating this form of allergy. Data collected so far show severe allergic reaction to be more frequent in children compared to adults. Therefore, the aim of this review is to collect the reported clinical features and the available association with specific molecular patterns of recognition to better understand how to manage these patients and improve daily clinical practice.
Topics: Adult; Humans; Child; Immunoglobulin E; Food Hypersensitivity; Allergens; Fruit; Pollen; Actinidia
PubMed: 37447357
DOI: 10.3390/nu15133030 -
International Immunology Apr 2024The epithelial barrier theory links the recent rise in chronic non-communicable diseases, notably autoimmune and allergic disorders, to environmental agents disrupting... (Review)
Review
The epithelial barrier theory links the recent rise in chronic non-communicable diseases, notably autoimmune and allergic disorders, to environmental agents disrupting the epithelial barrier. Global pollution and environmental toxic agent exposure have worsened over six decades because of uncontrolled growth, modernization, and industrialization, affecting human health. Introducing new chemicals without any reasonable control of their health effects through these years has led to documented adverse effects, especially on the skin and mucosal epithelial barriers. These substances, such as particulate matter, detergents, surfactants, food emulsifiers, micro- and nano-plastics, diesel exhaust, cigarette smoke, and ozone, have been shown to compromise the epithelial barrier integrity. This disruption is linked to the opening of the tight-junction barriers, inflammation, cell death, oxidative stress, and metabolic regulation. Consideration must be given to the interplay of toxic substances, underlying inflammatory diseases, and medications, especially in affected tissues. This review article discusses the detrimental effect of environmental barrier-damaging compounds on human health and involves cellular and molecular mechanisms.
Topics: Humans; Particulate Matter; Vehicle Emissions; Tight Junctions; Allergens; Oxidative Stress; Epithelial Cells
PubMed: 38227765
DOI: 10.1093/intimm/dxae002 -
Frontiers in Immunology 2023Albumins from animals are highly cross-reactive allergens for patients suffering from immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy. Approximately 20-30% of cat and dog... (Review)
Review
Albumins from animals are highly cross-reactive allergens for patients suffering from immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy. Approximately 20-30% of cat and dog allergic patients show IgE reactivity and mount IgE-mediated allergic reactions to cat and dog albumin. It is astonishing that allergic patients can develop specific IgE responses against animal albumins because these proteins exhibit a more than 70% sequence identity to human serum albumin (HSA) which is the most abundant protein in the blood of the human body. The sequence identity of cat albumin (Fel d 2) and dog albumin (Can f 3) and HSA are 82% and 80%, respectively. Given the high degree of sequence identity between the latter two allergens and HSA one would expect that immunological tolerance would prohibit IgE sensitization to Fel d 2 and Can f 3. Here we discuss two possibilities for how IgE sensitization to Fel d 2 and Can f 3 may develop. One possibility is the failed development of immune tolerance in albumin-allergic patients whereas the other possibility is highly selective immune tolerance to HSA but not to Fel d 2 and Can f 3. If the first assumption is correct it should be possible to detect HSA-specific T cell responses and HSA-containing immune complexes in sensitized patients. In the latter scenario few differences in the sequences of Fel d 2 and Can f 3 as compared to HSA would be responsible for the development of selective T cell and B cell responses towards Fel d 2 as well as Can f 3. However, the immunological mechanisms of albumin sensitization have not yet been investigated in detail although this will be important for the development of allergen-specific prevention and allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) strategies for allergy to albumin.
Topics: Humans; Cats; Animals; Dogs; Albumins; Hypersensitivity; Allergens; Immunoglobulin E; Serum Albumin, Human
PubMed: 37928538
DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2023.1241518 -
Cell Communication and Signaling : CCS Oct 2023Pyroptosis is crucial for controlling various immune cells. However, the role of allergen-induced CD11c + dendritic cell (DC) pyroptosis in allergic rhinitis (AR)...
BACKGROUND
Pyroptosis is crucial for controlling various immune cells. However, the role of allergen-induced CD11c + dendritic cell (DC) pyroptosis in allergic rhinitis (AR) remains unclear.
METHODS
Mice were grouped into the control group, AR group and necrosulfonamide-treated AR group (AR + NSA group). The allergic symptom scores, OVA-sIgE titres, serum IL-1β/IL-18 levels, histopathological characteristics and T-helper cell-related cytokines were evaluated. CD11c/GSDMD-N-positive cells were examined by immunofluorescence analysis. Murine CD11c + bone marrow-derived DCs (BMDCs) were induced in vitro, stimulated with OVA/HDM, treated with necrosulfonamide (NSA), and further cocultured with lymphocytes to assess BMDC function. An adoptive transfer murine model was used to study the role of BMDC pyroptosis in allergic rhinitis.
RESULTS
Inhibiting GSDMD-N-mediated pyroptosis markedly protected against Th1/Th2/Th17 imbalance and alleviated inflammatory responses in the AR model. GSDMD-N was mainly coexpressed with CD11c (a DC marker) in AR mice. In vitro, OVA/HDM stimulation increased pyroptotic morphological abnormalities and increased the expression of pyroptosis-related proteins in a dose-dependent manner; moreover, inhibiting pyroptosis significantly decreased pyroptotic morphology and NLRP3, C-Caspase1 and GSDMD-N expression. In addition, OVA-induced BMDC pyroptosis affected CD4 + T-cell differentiation and related cytokine levels, leading to Th1/Th2/Th17 cell imbalance. However, the Th1/Th2/Th17 cell immune imbalance was significantly reversed by NSA. Adoptive transfer of OVA-loaded BMDCs promoted allergic inflammation, while the administration of NSA to OVA-loaded BMDCs significantly reduced AR inflammation.
CONCLUSION
Allergen-induced dendritic cell pyroptosis promotes the development of allergic rhinitis through GSDMD-N-mediated pyroptosis, which provides a clue to allergic disease interventions. Video Abstract.
Topics: Animals; Mice; Allergens; Pyroptosis; Rhinitis, Allergic; Cytokines; Inflammation; Dendritic Cells; Mice, Inbred BALB C
PubMed: 37817225
DOI: 10.1186/s12964-023-01309-8 -
International Journal of Molecular... Nov 2023More than 10% of the world's population suffers from an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy to cats which is accompanied mainly by respiratory symptoms such as...
More than 10% of the world's population suffers from an immunoglobulin E (IgE)-mediated allergy to cats which is accompanied mainly by respiratory symptoms such as rhinitis and asthma. Several cat allergen molecules have been identified, but their allergenic activity has not been investigated in depth. Purified cat allergen molecules (Fel d 1, Fel d 2, Fel d 3, Fel d 4, Fel d 6, Fel d 7 and Fel d 8) were characterized via mass spectrometry and circular dichroism spectroscopy regarding their molecular mass and fold, respectively. Cat-allergen-specific IgE levels were quantified via ImmunoCAP measurements in IgE-sensitized subjects with (n = 37) and without (n = 20) respiratory symptoms related to cat exposure. The allergenic activity of the cat allergens was investigated by loading patients' IgE onto rat basophils expressing the human FcεRI receptor and studying the ability of different allergen concentrations to induce β-hexosaminidase release. Purified and folded cat allergens with correct masses were obtained. Cat-allergen-specific IgE levels were much higher in patients with a respiratory allergy than in patients without a respiratory allergy. Fel d 1, Fel d 2, Fel d 4 and Fel d 7 bound the highest levels of specific IgE and already-induced basophil degranulation at hundred-fold-lower concentrations than the other allergens. Fel d 1, Fel d 4 and Fel d 7 were recognized by more than 65% of patients with a respiratory allergy, whereas Fel d 2 was recognized by only 30%. Therefore, in addition to the major cat allergen Fel d 1, Fel d 4 and Fel d 7 should also be considered to be important allergens for the diagnosis and specific immunotherapy of cat allergy.
Topics: Humans; Rats; Animals; Allergens; Hypersensitivity; Immunoglobulin E; Basophils; Asthma
PubMed: 38069052
DOI: 10.3390/ijms242316729 -
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical... Sep 2023Growing up on traditional European or US Amish dairy farms in close contact with cows and hay protects children against asthma, and airway administration of extracts...
BACKGROUND
Growing up on traditional European or US Amish dairy farms in close contact with cows and hay protects children against asthma, and airway administration of extracts from dust collected from cowsheds of those farms prevents allergic asthma in mice.
OBJECTIVES
This study sought to begin identifying farm-derived asthma-protective agents.
METHODS
Our work unfolded along 2 unbiased and independent but complementary discovery paths. Dust extracts (DEs) from protective and nonprotective farms (European and Amish cowsheds vs European sheep sheds) were analyzed by comparative nuclear magnetic resonance profiling and differential proteomics. Bioactivity-guided size fractionation focused on protective Amish cowshed DEs. Multiple in vitro and in vivo functional assays were used in both paths. Some of the proteins thus identified were characterized by in-solution and in-gel sodium dodecyl sulfate-polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis enzymatic digestion/peptide mapping followed by liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry. The cargo carried by these proteins was analyzed by untargeted liquid chromatography-high-resolution mass spectrometry.
RESULTS
Twelve carrier proteins of animal and plant origin, including the bovine lipocalins Bos d 2 and odorant binding protein, were enriched in DEs from protective European cowsheds. A potent asthma-protective fraction of Amish cowshed DEs (≈0.5% of the total carbon content of unfractionated extracts) contained 7 animal and plant proteins, including Bos d 2 and odorant binding protein loaded with fatty acid metabolites from plants, bacteria, and fungi.
CONCLUSIONS
Animals and plants from traditional farms produce proteins that transport hydrophobic microbial and plant metabolites. When delivered to mucosal surfaces, these agents might regulate airway responses.
Topics: Female; Animals; Cattle; Mice; Sheep; Farms; Dust; Asthma; Allergens; Respiratory System
PubMed: 37271318
DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2023.05.013 -
Cells Oct 2023Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus. It arises from a complex interplay of... (Review)
Review
Eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) is a chronic inflammatory disease characterized by eosinophilic infiltration of the esophagus. It arises from a complex interplay of genetic predisposition (susceptibility loci), environmental triggers (allergens and dietary antigens), and a dysregulated immune response, mainly mediated by type 2 T helper cell (Th2)-released cytokines, such as interleukin (IL)-4, IL-5, and IL-13. These cytokines control eosinophil recruitment and activation as well as tissue remodeling, contributing to the characteristic features of EoE. The pathogenesis of EoE includes epithelial barrier dysfunction, mast cell activation, eosinophil degranulation, and fibrosis. Epithelial barrier dysfunction allows allergen penetration and promotes immune cell infiltration, thereby perpetuating the inflammatory response. Mast cells release proinflammatory mediators and promote eosinophil recruitment and the release of cytotoxic proteins and cytokines, causing tissue damage and remodeling. Prolonged inflammation can lead to fibrosis, resulting in long-term complications such as strictures and dysmotility. Current treatment options for EoE are limited and mainly focus on dietary changes, proton-pump inhibitors, and topical corticosteroids. Novel therapies targeting key inflammatory pathways, such as monoclonal antibodies against IL-4, IL-5, and IL-13, are emerging in clinical trials. A deeper understanding of the complex pathogenetic mechanisms behind EoE will contribute to the development of more effective and personalized therapeutic strategies.
Topics: Humans; Eosinophilic Esophagitis; Interleukin-13; Interleukin-5; Cytokines; Allergens; Fibrosis
PubMed: 37887317
DOI: 10.3390/cells12202473 -
The Plant Genome Dec 2023In addition to the challenge of meeting global demand for food production, there are increasing concerns about food safety and the need to protect consumer health from... (Review)
Review
In addition to the challenge of meeting global demand for food production, there are increasing concerns about food safety and the need to protect consumer health from the negative effects of foodborne allergies. Certain bio-molecules (usually proteins) present in food can act as allergens that trigger unusual immunological reactions, with potentially life-threatening consequences. The relentless working lifestyles of the modern era often incorporate poor eating habits that include readymade prepackaged and processed foods, which contain additives such as peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, and soy-based products, rather than traditional home cooking. Of the predominant allergenic foods (soybean, wheat, fish, peanut, shellfish, tree nuts, eggs, and milk), peanuts (Arachis hypogaea) are the best characterized source of allergens, followed by tree nuts (Juglans regia, Prunus amygdalus, Corylus avellana, Carya illinoinensis, Anacardium occidentale, Pistacia vera, Bertholletia excels), wheat (Triticum aestivum), soybeans (Glycine max), and kidney beans (Phaseolus vulgaris). The prevalence of food allergies has risen significantly in recent years including chance of accidental exposure to such foods. In contrast, the standards of detection, diagnosis, and cure have not kept pace and unfortunately are often suboptimal. In this review, we mainly focus on the prevalence of allergies associated with peanut, tree nuts, wheat, soybean, and kidney bean, highlighting their physiological properties and functions as well as considering research directions for tailoring allergen gene expression. In particular, we discuss how recent advances in molecular breeding, genetic engineering, and genome editing can be used to develop potential low allergen food crops that protect consumer health.
Topics: Animals; Food Hypersensitivity; Nuts; Arachis; Allergens; Glycine max; Crops, Agricultural
PubMed: 37641460
DOI: 10.1002/tpg2.20375