Humans are constantly exposed to various environmental allergens, such as pollen, food, and dust mites. In some individuals, their immune system mistakenly recognizes these common environmental antigens as foreign substances, triggering the production of allergy-related antibodies known as immunoglobulin E (IgE). This process, where IgE antibodies specific to environmental allergens are produced, is referred to as allergic sensitization. Since sensitization typically precedes the clinical onset of allergic diseases, it serves as an important marker for evaluating such conditions and exploring preventive strategies.
A research team conducted a genome-wide association study (GWAS) using genotype data from 46,602 Japanese individuals, collected by the University of Tsukuba and Tohoku Medical Megabank. By analyzing this data, the team investigated the association between genetic polymorphisms—inter-individual genetic variations—and the status of allergic sensitization. The findings were further integrated with GWAS data from a European population of 25,032 individuals to identify genetic polymorphisms related to allergic sensitization.
The study revealed 18 genetic polymorphisms specific to the Japanese population that were linked to sensitization, as well as 23 genetic polymorphisms identified through a meta-analysis of both Japanese and European datasets. Additionally, the team conducted the first GWAS on polysensitization (sensitization to multiple allergens), uncovering eight associated genetic polymorphisms.
Further analysis showed that the genetic predisposition to allergic sensitization had a weaker influence on the onset of atopic dermatitis compared to conditions such as asthma, allergic rhinitis, and pollinosis. These findings represent a significant step forward in understanding the molecular mechanisms underlying allergic diseases, potentially paving the way for the development of novel preventive and therapeutic strategies.
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