Science Current Events | Science News | Brightsurf.com
 
Email a Friend Send to a friend
Printer Friendly Print Scientists developing food allergy treatment

Scientists developing food allergy treatment

December 01, 2008

A team of scientists from across Europe are embarking on new research to develop a treatment for food allergy.

"Food allergy affects around 10 million EU citizens and there is no cure," says Dr Clare Mills of the Institute of Food Research, a lead partner in the Food Allergy Specific Therapy (FAST) research project. "All people with food allergy can do is avoid the foods to which they are allergic. The threat of severe anaphylaxis has a great impact on their quality of life."




Attempted treatment with allergen-specific immunotherapy, where a patient received monthly injections with an allergen extract for three to five years, failed because it could cause anaphylaxis as a side effect.

Anaphylaxis is a severe allergic reaction involving the whole body, often within minutes of exposure to the allergen. Peanut allergy is the most widely known cause, but other causes of anaphylaxis include other foods, insect stings, latex and drugs. If untreated in time it can be fatal.

In the FAST project, scientists will use modified variants of allergic proteins that are hypoallergenic and therefore safer. The proteins will be purified making them more effective and making it easier to control the dose.

Ninety percent of all food allergies are caused by about 10 foods. Allergies to fish and fruit are among the most common in Europe. In fish allergy the protein responsible is parvalbumin and in fruit it is lipid transfer protein (LTP). Modified hypo-allergenic versions of these proteins will be produced at tested as potential treatments.

"We are hoping for a cure that will allow people to eat fish or fruit again," says Dr Ronald van Ree from the Academic Medical Center at the University of Amsterdam. "But a significant reduction of sensitivity would already be a great step forwards.

"The risk of unintentional exposure due to cross-contamination of foods, or while eating in restaurants or at parties, will decrease. This will take away lot of the anxiety that has a negative impact on the quality of life of food allergy sufferers."

Norwich BioScience Institutes



Related Food Allergy Current Events and Food Allergy News Articles Food Allergy Current Events and Food Allergy News RSS Food Allergy Current Events and Food Allergy News RSS
Milk is safe, even encouraged, for some children after treatment for milk allergy
Some children with a history of severe milk allergy can safely drink milk and consume other dairy products every day, according to research led by the Johns Hopkins Children's Center and published in the Aug. 10 online edition of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology.

Study Characterizes Eczema Patients Most at Risk for Dangerous Viral Infections
Eczema patients at risk for serious viral infections have more severe disease, are more likely to be allergic to food and other allergens, and have a frequent history of staph infections.

New data analysis shows possible link between childhood obesity and allergies
A new study indicates there may be yet another reason to reduce childhood obesity - it may help prevent allergies. The study published in the May issue of the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology showed that obese children and adolescents are at increased risk of having some kind of allergy, especially to a food.

Canberra parents lack allergy awareness: Study
Nearly four per cent of ACT kindergarten children have a peanut allergy and while the region's schools are well prepared to cope with this, some parents are taking inappropriate action when dealing with their child's allergy, according to a new study.

Studies show children can complete treatment for peanut allergies and achieve long-term tolerance
A carefully administered daily dose of peanuts has been so successful as a therapy for peanut allergies that a select group of children is now off treatment and eating peanuts daily, report doctors at Duke University Medical Center and Arkansas Children's Hospital.

Of Mice and Peanuts: A new mouse model for peanut allergy
Chicago researchers report the development of a new mouse model for food allergy that mimics symptoms generated during a human allergic reaction to peanuts.

Drinking milk to ease milk allergy?
Giving children with milk allergies increasingly higher doses of milk over time may ease, and even help them completely overcome, their allergic reactions, according to the results of a study led by the Johns Hopkins Children's Center and conducted jointly with Duke University.

Society's lack of food allergies impacts those afflicted with food allergies
The level of knowledge and understanding of children with food allergies varies significantly across three key groups: pediatricians and family physicians, the general public and families who have a child with food allergies. The article describing the new findings was published in the September issue of BioMed Central Pediatrics.

Students with food allergies often not prepared
College students with food allergies aren't avoiding the foods they know they shouldn't eat. Students of all ages are not treated with potentially life-saving epinephrine as often as they should be. And instructors, roommates and friends often are not aware of what to do if a food-allergic student has a reaction.

Biotechnology vs. Sustainability: What Do Students Think?
College students in a Sustainable Agriculture course were surveyed before and after taking the class. Students' exposure to the ideas of sustainability, as well as biotechnology-related topics, provided them with a chance to state their views as they completed homework and exams and participated in discussions.
More Food Allergy Current Events and Food Allergy News Articles
Food Allergies For Dummies

Food Allergies For Dummies
by Robert A. Wood MD (Author), Joe Kraynak (Contributor)

Are you constantly worrying about what you or your loved ones eat? Is every dining experience an episode of anxiety for you? Being allergic to different types of food not only ruins the experience of eating, it can lead to dangerous, sometimes lethal, consequences.

With Food Allergies for Dummies, you can feel safer about what you eat. This concise guide shows you how to identify and avoid food that triggers reactions. This guide covers how to care for a child with food allergies, such as getting involved with his/her school’s allergy policies, packing safe lunches, and empowering him/her to take responsibility for his allergy. You will also discover: The signs and symptoms of food allergies How to determine the severity of your allergy Ways to eat out and...

Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: The Complete Guide to Their Identification and Treatment

Food Allergies and Food Intolerance: The Complete Guide to Their Identification and Treatment
by Jonathan Brostoff M.D. (Author), Linda Gamlin (Author), Jonathan Brostoff (Author)

* A leading international authority on food allergy and intolerance provides invaluable advice for achieving dramatic and long-lasting improvements in your health. * Explains how sensitivity to foods is responsible for many chronic and misdiagnosed ailments such as migraines, sinus problems, and persistent fatigue. * Includes a step-by-step process for identifying food allergies and intolerances and reshaping your diet for better health.

Many people suffer from chronic, unexplained health problems--migraine headaches, poor digestion, recurring sinus symptoms, aching muscles and joints, persistent fatigue--whose causes remain elusive, even to doctors. When conventional tests fail to provide a clear-cut diagnosis, doctors often suggest that these symptoms are due to stress or...

The Whole Foods Allergy Cookbook: Two Hundred Gourmet & Homestyle Recipes for the Food Allergic Family

The Whole Foods Allergy Cookbook: Two Hundred Gourmet & Homestyle Recipes for the Food Allergic Family
by Cybele Pascal (Author)

The First Cookbook to Eliminate ALL Eight Allergens Responsible for Ninety Percent of Food Allergies

- 200 gourmet and homestyle recipes your whole family will absolutely love! - All recipes are free of the top eight allergens: dairy, eggs, wheat, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, fish or shellfish and also refined sugar! - Baked goods are all vegan. - Guide to gluten-free recipes. - Shopping Guide for hard-to-find items. - Food Allergy Information Resource Guide.

Pineapple Banana Granola * Sweet Potato Cranberry Muffins * Curried Pumpkin Soup * Frisee with Figs, Pear, and Crispy Bacon * Quinoa Tabouli * Polenta Radiatore with Prosciutto, Shitake Mushrooms, and Spinach * Grilled Chicken Breast with Mango Salsa * Creamy Avocado Dressing

Food Allergy: Adverse Reactions to Foods and Food Additives

Food Allergy: Adverse Reactions to Foods and Food Additives
by Dean D. Metcalfe (Editor), Hugh A. Sampson (Editor), Ronald A. Simon (Editor)

Applying a scientific approach this unique book covers both pediatric and adult adverse reactions to foods and food additives. Following the successful formula of the previous editions, Food Allergy has established itself asthe comprehensive reference for those treating patients with food allergy or suspected allergy. The book has been thoroughly revised and updated presenting new chapters devoted to food biotechnology and genetic engineering, seafood toxins, future approaches to therapy and hidden food allergens.


Food Allergy, fourth edition, is divided into five sections featuring key concept boxes for each chapter. Displayed in a logical manner the book is a practical, readable reference for use in the hospital or private practice setting.

Understanding and Managing Your Child's Food Allergies (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)

Understanding and Managing Your Child's Food Allergies (A Johns Hopkins Press Health Book)
by Scott H. Sicherer MD (Author)

For children with food allergies, eating -- one of the basic functions of life -- can be a nightmare. Children who suffer or become dangerously ill after eating peanuts, seafood, milk, eggs, wheat, or a host of other foods require constant vigilance from caring, concerned parents, teachers, and friends.

In this empathetic and comprehensive guide, Dr. Scott H. Sicherer, a specialist in pediatric food allergies, gives parents the information they need to manage their children's health and quality of life. He describes why children develop food allergy, the symptoms of food allergy (affecting the skin, the gastrointestinal tract, and the respiratory system), and the role of food allergy in behavioral problems and developmental disabilities. Parents will learn how to recognize...

Food Allergy Survival Guide: Surviving and Thriving With Food Allergies and Sensitivities

Food Allergy Survival Guide: Surviving and Thriving With Food Allergies and Sensitivities
by Vesanto Melina (Author), Dina Aronson (Author), Jo Stepaniak (Author)

This comprehensive resource, created by three leading authorities in dietetics, nutrition, and vegetarian cooking, offers a unique blend of scientific researach, practical advice, and culinary expertise that will show you how to: know the difference between food allergy, food intolerance and food sensitivity; test for allergies; avoid the foods and ingredients that trigger reactions; maintain a healthy intestinal boundary; understand the latest food labeling regulations; and create menus that meet your nutritional requirements. Over 100 recipes by uncheese specialist Jo Stepaniak redefine the notion that allergy-free means flavor-free.

Dealing with Food Allergies: A Practical Guide to Detecting Culprit Foods and Eating a Healthy, Enjoyable Diet

Dealing with Food Allergies: A Practical Guide to Detecting Culprit Foods and Eating a Healthy, Enjoyable Diet
by Janice Vickerstaff Joneja PhD RD (Author)

A food allergy is an immune system response to a food that the body mistakenly believes is harmful. Chemicals released by the immune system to protect the body trigger allergic reactions — varying widely from mild rashes to life-threatening anaphylactic shock. Often difficult to diagnose, food allergies can be lifetime afflictions — with no treatment other than avoiding the offending food. Dealing with Food Allergies presents up-to-date information on current diagnostic methods and treatment options. An authority on food allergies and intolerances, the author describes the effects of food allergies on the skin, mucous membranes, and respiratory and digestive tracts; discusses treatment by allergists and other healthcare professionals; and empowers readers to manage their food...

One Of The Gang: Nurturing the Souls of Children with Food Allergies

One Of The Gang: Nurturing the Souls of Children with Food Allergies
by Gina Clowes (Author)

Families of children with food allergies know that this invisible condition requires constant vigilance. The necessity of keeping these children safe cannot be overstated; however, their emotional well-being is equally important. Food is used in almost every type of celebration, and is often a focal point of these events. Even in day-to-day life, food is everywhere. Children who have food allergies may be excluded from many of these activities. Some seem to take it in stride, while others feel varying degrees of sadness, anger, or fear. This book was meant to shed light on the emotional side and to help children cope with these challenges. It also serves as a reminder that even though this condition must be managed on a daily basis, it need not stop them from enjoying a wonderful life and...

The Bugabees: Friends With Food Allergies

The Bugabees: Friends With Food Allergies
by Amy Recob (Author)

A whimsical tale of eight friends with food allergies. Food allergies are never fun, but best friends always are! This light-hearted story explores the daily routines of eight best buggy friends such as Beetle, Cricket and Butterfly, as they face their respective food allergies with positivity and poise.

At home and at school, at the park, or on the beach, BugaBees find ways to stay safe, have fun, and remember that the joy of friendship is far sweeter than any food they can, or in some cases, can't have.

With captivating illustrations and clever rhyming verse, this fun and fanciful tale teaches children to be happy and healthy in spite of a food allergy diagnosis.

While a child could be allergic to any food, BugaBee characters are based on the eight foods that account for 90...

myallergytest Tests for Airborne and Food Allergens 1 ea

myallergytest Tests for Airborne and Food Allergens 1 ea
by MyAllergyTest

MyAllergyTest is first ever home allergy test that can determine if you have allergies to 10 of most common allergens: timothy grass, bermuda grass, mtn cedar, ragweed, mold, egg white, milk, wheat, cat, dust mites

© 2009 BrightSurf.com