Allergen-cat

Runny nose, itchy eyes, sneezing and wheezing – researchers in Nottingham have uncovered a cell component which play a key role in triggering allergic responses like these.

Allergy symptoms are triggered by the immune system responding to foreign invaders and research from the University of Nottingham has indentified the mannose receptor (MR) as playing a pivotal role in recognising and responding to allergens.

MR cells – found on the surface of dendtrites – are among the first cells in the immune system that come into contact with allergens. Using cat dander – microscopic pieces of cat skin which become airborne – researchers proved that MRs are needed for the body to recognise Fel d 1, a major cat allergen, as a foreign invader.

Fel d 1 triggers the production of IEG, a molecule produced by the immune system when it is under attack. IEG also leads to the releases of further chemicals – including histamine – by certain immune cells which together cause an inflammatory response and the classic symptoms of allergy.

“Many people with asthma are highly sensitive to airborne allergens such as cat dander or house dust mite – in fact many studies have shown up to 40% of children with asthma are allergic to cat allergens,” said Dr Amir Ghaem-Maghami, lead co-author and an immunologist from the school of molecular medical sciences.

“A better understanding of how the interaction between allergens and the immune system leads to allergy is vital if we are to develop more effective and efficient treatments for this debilitating condition.”

The work was funded by the charity Asthma UK. Research relations manager Elaine Vickers said: “This is a great example where Asthma UK’s research funding is leading to a better understanding of asthma which could ultimately benefit thousands of people with both asthma and allergies.”