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A groundbreaking study has uncovered new genetic insights into birch pollen allergy, one of the most common allergies in Europe, affecting approximately 450,000 people in Austria alone. This allergy, which can lead to chronic conditions like asthma, significantly impacts the quality of life of its sufferers. Despite its widespread effects, little was known about the specific gene activities linked to allergic reactions in the nasal mucosa—until now.

A collaborative research team from KL Krems, MedUni Vienna, and other partners has successfully decoded significant differences in gene activity between individuals with and without birch pollen allergy. Published in the journal Allergy, the study offers valuable insights into the genetic mechanisms that trigger allergic reactions in the nasal passages.

Gene Activation in Allergy Sufferers

The research focused on examining the transcriptome profiles—the gene expression patterns—of the nasal mucosa when exposed to birch pollen. The results were striking. Priv.-Doz. Dr. Christine Hafner, study leader from the Division of Dermatology and Venerology at St. Pölten University Hospital, explained, “Our analyses show that significantly more genes are activated in allergy sufferers than in those who are not affected.”

The study revealed that 160 genes in the nasal mucosa of allergy sufferers exhibited significant changes in activity after birch pollen exposure, compared to just 44 genes in individuals without the allergy. Most notably, immunological signaling pathways, such as granulocyte chemotaxis and IL-8 signaling, were activated, along with pathways involved in wound healing and cell migration. These genetic changes occurred within minutes of exposure, a reaction not seen in unaffected individuals.

A Closer Look at Immune Molecules

The research also highlighted a surge in specific pro-inflammatory molecules, such as CCL17, IL-16, and IL-33, in the nasal mucosa of those with birch pollen allergies. Univ.-Prof. Dr. Heimo Breiteneder from MedUni Vienna’s Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research noted, “These molecules could play key roles in allergic reactions and serve as potential targets for new therapies.”

In contrast, unaffected individuals exhibited stronger nasal mucosal barrier functions, including the production of proteins that help stabilize the mucosal lining. This difference could explain why allergy sufferers are more vulnerable to pollen-induced allergic reactions.

A Step Toward Personalized Medicine

The findings pave the way for personalized treatments and preventive measures tailored to individuals based on their genetic makeup. Understanding the genetic triggers behind birch pollen allergies could enable the development of more effective therapies, offering relief to millions of allergy sufferers and possibly reducing the risk of chronic conditions like asthma.

With this pioneering research, scientists are now closer than ever to unraveling the complexities of allergic reactions and providing personalized solutions for those affected by birch pollen allergies.

For more information, the full study is available in Allergy (2024), DOI: 10.1111/all.16448.

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