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Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases
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Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases

A special issue of International Journal of Molecular Sciences (ISSN 1422-0067). This special issue belongs to the section "Molecular Pathology, Diagnostics, and Therapeutics".

Deadline for manuscript submissions: 20 August 2025 | Viewed by 4288

Special Issue Editor

Dr. Sylwia Smolińska

E-Mail Website
Guest Editor
Department of Clinical Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Wroclaw Medical University, Parkowa 34, 51-616 Wroclaw, Poland
Interests: microbiome; asthma; allergies; intestinal tract; exposome
Special Issues, Collections and Topics in MDPI journals

Special Issue Information

Dear Colleagues,

In this Special Issue of the International Journal of Molecular Sciences, we focus on the latest advancements in allergen identification and innovative strategies for managing their impact on human health. This Special Issue covers topics related to environmental allergens, food allergies, the influence of pollution on allergic reactions, and new allergens in the context of the opportunities offered by modern allergy diagnostics, including Molecular Allergy Diagnostics (MDA).

The significance of MDA lies in its ability to pinpoint specific allergens responsible for adverse reactions. By identifying these allergens at a molecular level, precise and personalized treatment options can be offered, tailored to each individual’s sensitivities. This targeted approach shortens diagnostic time and improves treatment outcomes for patients, enabling the avoidance of specific triggers and thus reducing the risk of allergic reactions. One of the methods for treating allergic diseases is Allergen Immunotherapy (AIT). Molecular diagnostic methods in allergy, by providing precise allergen identification, assist in selecting the appropriate allergens for AIT and in qualifying patients with the highest likelihood of success with this therapy. In cases of food allergies, effective therapy may not always be feasible, and the complete elimination of allergens from our surroundings may be challenging. Therefore, the identification and understanding of allergens triggering allergic reactions, as well as those causing cross-reactivity, along with new and unexpected sources of allergens, are of crucial importance. Hence, MDA is particularly important for individuals susceptible to anaphylactic shock.

The exploration of new allergens, cross-reactivity patterns, and unexpected sources of allergens presents continual challenges in the treatment of allergies. Ongoing research and monitoring in MDA are essential for identifying emerging allergens, understanding cross-reactivity mechanisms, and uncovering hidden allergen sources. By remaining vigilant and responsive to these evolving trends, healthcare professionals can adapt diagnostic strategies, raise awareness, and improve treatment outcomes for individuals affected by allergies through a molecular lens.

By utilizing MDA, doctors can expedite the diagnostic process, improve patient care, and optimize treatment outcomes for allergic diseases. Collaborators interested in advancing knowledge in this area are encouraged to join this innovative initiative.

This Special Issue is supervised by Dr. Sylwia Smolińska and assisted by our Topical Advisory Panel Member Dr. Emilia Majsiak (Department of Health Promotion, Chair of Nursing Development, Faculty Health of Sciences, Medical University of Lublin).

Dr. Sylwia Smolińska
Guest Editor

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Keywords

  • molecular allergy diagnostics
  • allergen identification
  • allergen neutralization/elimination strategies
  • allergen immunotherapy
  • impact of pollution on allergies
  • new allergens
  • cross-reactivity
  • unexpected allergen sources

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Related Special Issue

Published Papers (5 papers)

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Research

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16 pages, 617 KiB  
Article
A Comparison of asIgE Levels Measured with ALEX and ImmunoCAP ISAC in Polish Children with Food Allergies
by Emilia Majsiak, Magdalena Choina, Karolina Miśkiewicz, Solomiya Pukalyak, Sylwia Smolińska and Ryszard Kurzawa
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(5), 1810; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26051810 - 20 Feb 2025
Viewed by 921
Abstract
In order to establish the reliability of new multiplex tests for determining allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (asIgE) levels in serum, the results of asIgE determinations obtained via ALEX tests were compared to those obtained via ImmunoCAP ISAC in a group of 40 Polish children [...] Read more.
In order to establish the reliability of new multiplex tests for determining allergen-specific immunoglobulin E (asIgE) levels in serum, the results of asIgE determinations obtained via ALEX tests were compared to those obtained via ImmunoCAP ISAC in a group of 40 Polish children hospitalized due to food allergy and/or anaphylaxis. The analysis was based on 6320 determinations of asIgEs relative to 79 common allergen molecules included in both tests (80 tests conducted—40 ALEX and 40 ISAC). The study showed a high correlation of results between the compared diagnostic tests, with the concordance of asIgE determinations at the level of 92.5% (n = 2922). The results of this study showed the sensitivity of the ALEX test to be comparable with that of the ImmunoCAP ISAC test. One indisputable advantage of the ALEX test is its high number of determinations per procedure, which provides more information about the patient’s molecular profile; moreover, the use of an inhibitor of the asIgEs that bind to cross-reactive carbohydrate determinants (CCDs) reduces their impact on the results for allergens naturally containing carbohydrate determinants. Comparative analyses of asIgE test results obtained with ALEX and ImmunoCAP ISAC tests demonstrate that the ALEX test is a reliable diagnostic tool for asIgE assessments. However, significant differences in the absolute values of asIgEs relative to individual molecules suggest the need for caution when directly comparing asIgE levels from both tests. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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11 pages, 1786 KiB  
Article
Molecular Profiles of Sensitization to Non-Specific Lipid Transfer Proteins in Lithuania: Single Center Experience
by Sandra Sakalauskaite, Ligita Pilkyte, Edita Gasiuniene and Brigita Gradauskiene
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(24), 13535; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252413535 - 18 Dec 2024
Viewed by 1032
Abstract
Non-specific Lipid Transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are relevant allergens of several pollens and plant foods. Sensitization to nsLTPs is not typical in our region. Still, it has become an increasingly common cause of IgE-mediated food allergies and food-induced anaphylaxis in Northern Europe in recent [...] Read more.
Non-specific Lipid Transfer proteins (nsLTPs) are relevant allergens of several pollens and plant foods. Sensitization to nsLTPs is not typical in our region. Still, it has become an increasingly common cause of IgE-mediated food allergies and food-induced anaphylaxis in Northern Europe in recent decades. No in-depth studies describe the prevalence of sensitization of molecular components to nsLTPs in Lithuania. This study aimed to determine the sensitization profile of atopic patients at the Immunology and Allergy Department of Kauno Klinikos to the components of nsLTPs, using molecular allergen component analysis. Sixty Lithuanian adults with symptoms of allergic rhinitis and/or allergic asthma and/or food allergies were included into the study. Specific immunoglobulin E (IgE) levels were measured using two in vitro techniques: allergen extract and molecular component analysis. Results showed that 25% of subjects were sensitized to nsLTP-containing allergen sources, mostly to Zea m 14, Mal d 3, Vit v 1, and Art v 3. The median amount of total IgE was higher in nsLTP-sensitized patients than in nsLTP-nonsensitized patients. Based on Cohen’s Kappa and McNemar tests, the results of allergen extract and component analysis tests do not always agree, especially when we determine the sensitization to allergen sources containing nsLTPs. Molecular allergen component analysis could be the first choice in determining detailed sensitization to nsLTPs in patients who experienced anaphylaxis of unknown origin. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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11 pages, 3728 KiB  
Article
Extracellular ATP Contributes to Barrier Function and Inflammation in Atopic Dermatitis: Potential for Topical Treatment of Atopic Dermatitis by Targeting Extracellular ATP
by Kazuhiko Yamamura, Fumitaka Ohno, Shu Yotsumoto, Yuki Sato, Nanae Kimura, Kiichiro Nishio, Keiichi Inoue, Toshio Ichiki, Yoko Kuba-Fuyuno, Kei Fujishima, Takamichi Ito, Makiko Kido-Nakahara, Gaku Tsuji and Takeshi Nakahara
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2024, 25(22), 12294; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms252212294 - 15 Nov 2024
Cited by 2 | Viewed by 1399
Abstract
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by chronic inflammation, barrier dysfunction, and pruritus, exacerbated by external stimuli, such as scratching. This study investigates the role of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the pathophysiology of AD and assesses the therapeutic potential of clodronate, an ATP [...] Read more.
Atopic dermatitis (AD) is characterized by chronic inflammation, barrier dysfunction, and pruritus, exacerbated by external stimuli, such as scratching. This study investigates the role of extracellular adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in the pathophysiology of AD and assesses the therapeutic potential of clodronate, an ATP release inhibitor. Our research demonstrates that extracellular ATP impairs skin barrier function by reducing the filaggrin expression in the keratinocytes, a critical protein for barrier integrity. Furthermore, ATP release, triggered by IL-4 and mechanical stimuli, amplifies inflammation by promoting cytokine and chemokine production by the immune cells. Clodronate, by inhibiting ATP release, restores the filaggrin levels in the keratinocytes, reduces TARC production in the dendritic cells, and alleviates AD symptoms in a mouse model. These findings suggest that targeting extracellular ATP could offer a novel therapeutic approach to improving skin barrier function and reducing inflammation in AD. Future studies should explore the long-term efficacy and safety of ATP-targeted therapies in clinical settings. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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Review

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11 pages, 773 KiB  
Review
Inhaled Allergy Diagnostics and Treatment in a Polluted Environment
by Marcel Mazur and Ewa Czarnobilska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 5966; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26135966 - 21 Jun 2025
Viewed by 168
Abstract
Allergic diseases have been increasing in prevalence over the last years. In a polluted environment, this problem can worsen and become more complex. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to the aggravation of allergic rhinitis (AR) and even to the development of [...] Read more.
Allergic diseases have been increasing in prevalence over the last years. In a polluted environment, this problem can worsen and become more complex. Long-term exposure to air pollution can lead to the aggravation of allergic rhinitis (AR) and even to the development of seasonal asthma. Climate changes can accelerate and extend the pollination season. Research indicates that air pollution may modify the properties of pollen, making it more aggressive. Asymptomatic allergic people disclose their allergies in a polluted environment. A polluted environment complicates the diagnosis of seasonal allergies. The treatment might be more challenging as standard allergy medications may not be enough to control symptoms. The causal treatment of allergic rhinitis is specific allergen immunotherapy (AIT), which may prove less effective in people living in a polluted environment. The problem may lie in the proper evaluation for AIT as well as the assessment of its effectiveness. To date, the best way to confirm an allergy and qualify a patient for AIT seems to be molecular diagnostics. The question arises whether patients exposed to air pollution, which could potentially reduce the effectiveness of AIT, are still eligible for AIT. It is also debatable whether molecular diagnostics remain effective in such cases. Advancing precision medicine alongside environmental management represents a critical pathway toward reducing the growing global burden of allergic diseases. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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Other

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14 pages, 448 KiB  
Case Report
Allergy to Lipid Transfer Protein or Hypersensitivity to Non-Steroidal Anti-Inflammatory Drugs?
by Magdalena Rydzyńska, Kinga Lis, Zbigniew Bartuzi, Tomasz Rosada, Magdalena Grześk-Kaczyńska and Natalia Ukleja-Sokołowska
Int. J. Mol. Sci. 2025, 26(13), 5988; https://doi.org/10.3390/ijms26135988 - 22 Jun 2025
Viewed by 57
Abstract
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause hypersensitivity reactions and lead to anaphylactic shock. These drugs also act as cofactors in allergic reactions. Lipid transfer proteins (LTPs), found in plants, represent a unique group of allergens in which cofactors play a crucial role. This [...] Read more.
Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can cause hypersensitivity reactions and lead to anaphylactic shock. These drugs also act as cofactors in allergic reactions. Lipid transfer proteins (LTPs), found in plants, represent a unique group of allergens in which cofactors play a crucial role. This case report describes a 26-year-old female who developed anaphylactic symptoms after ingesting grapes and taking ketoprofen. The patient experienced swelling of the lips, tongue, and throat, as well as shortness of breath, dizziness, and loss of consciousness, after consuming grapes and taking ketoprofen. She had previously used ketoprofen and acetylsalicylic acid without issues but had developed urticaria on several occasions after consuming multi-ingredient dishes. Skin prick tests showed positive results for peanut and orange allergens. Further testing using the ALEX multiparametric test detected antibodies to several LTP allergens. Intradermal tests with ketoprofen yielded a positive result, although irritant reactions could not be ruled out. A provocation test with acetylsalicylic acid (ASA) showed no adverse reactions. Skin tests with ibuprofen were negative, and provocation tests confirmed its tolerance. A diagnosis of LTP allergy and selective ketoprofen allergy was made, with the recommendation to avoid ketoprofen and follow a diet excluding foods from the LTP group. Full article
(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Therapeutic Strategies in Allergic Diseases)
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