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Invasive fire ants limiting spread of meat allergy -- but pose their own dangers

Researchers found that areas with high fire ant populations had lower rates of the meat allergy, which is caused by the lone star tick. The study suggests that fire ants may be competing with ticks for a resource, limiting the spread of the allergy. However, this also means that fire ant bites can cause severe allergic reactions.

SourceUniversity of Virginia Health System·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateJun 24, 2020

Multi-omics approach offers new insights into peanut allergy severity

A study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology identified over 300 genes and 200 CpG sites associated with reaction severity. The research suggests that neutrophil-mediated immunity plays a prominent role in peanut allergy reactions, offering potential new targets for treatment.

SourceThe Mount Sinai Hospital / Mount Sinai School of Medicine·JournalJournal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology·DateDec 13, 2019

How common is sesame allergy?

A study of nearly 79,000 individuals found that approximately 0.8% of the US population has a sesame allergy. The survey responses indicated that sesame allergy is more common among children and individuals with other food allergies.

SourceJAMA Network·JournalJAMA Network Open·DateAug 2, 2019

You're probably not allergic to vaccines

According to a study published in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, vaccine allergies are extremely uncommon, affecting only one in 760,000 vaccinations. Most side effects from vaccines are not allergic reactions, but rather minor responses that can be managed with over-the-counter medications.

SourceMcMaster University·JournalCanadian Medical Association Journal·DateApr 8, 2019

Prenatal allergies prompt sexual changes in offspring

A new research suggests that a single allergic reaction during pregnancy can prompt significant changes in the brains of offspring, leading to more male-like behavior and brain development. Female rats born to mothers exposed to an allergen during pregnancy exhibited higher levels of male-like behavior and brain changes.

SourceOhio State University·JournalScientific Reports·DateMar 21, 2019

The irresistible CCL17

Researchers at the University of Bonn have found that CCL17 influences signal transmission in the brain and may be linked to autism. The chemokine is mainly produced by neurons in the hippocampus, a structure involved in tasks such as orientation and memory formation.

SourceUniversity of Bonn·JournalGlia·DateSep 13, 2018

Link between appendicitis and allergies discovered

A new study from Lund University and Skåne University Hospital found that children with allergies have a lower risk of developing complicated appendicitis. The study compared outcomes for 605 children with and without IgE-mediated allergy, finding a significant association between the two.

SourceLund University·JournalJAMA Pediatrics·DateAug 7, 2018

How allergens trigger asthma attacks

A team of scientists has identified a human protein called interleukin-33 (IL-33) that reacts to various environmental allergens, including mold, pollen, and cockroaches. This discovery establishes a direct link between genetics and the environment, and offers new potential targets for treatment of allergic diseases.

SourceCNRS·JournalNature Immunology·DateMar 19, 2018