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Kosowska A, Zemelka-Wiącek M, Smolińska S, Wyrodek E, Adamczak B, Jutel M. Clinical validation of grass pollen exposure chamber in patients with allergic rhinitis triggered by timothy grass. Clin Exp Allergy 2024; 54:489-499. [PMID: 38616622 DOI: 10.1111/cea.14482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 03/25/2024] [Accepted: 03/31/2024] [Indexed: 04/16/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The fluctuation in concentrations of airborne allergens frequently presents a challenge to assessing the efficacy of allergen immunotherapy (AIT) in 'field' studies. Allergen exposure chambers (AECs) are specialized medical installations developed to expose individuals to allergens at defined and consistent concentrations under a controlled environment. The aim of the study was to validate the provocation test with timothy grass pollen as well as to assess its safety in the AEC in patients with allergic rhinitis. METHODS In the ALLEC® AEC, varying concentrations of timothy grass pollen were dispersed. Allergic symptoms were measured by total nasal symptom score (TNSS), acoustic rhinometry, peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) and nasal discharge volume. Lung function, assessed through peak expiratory flow rate (PEFR) and forced expiratory volume in the first second (FEV1), was used to evaluate safety. RESULTS The consistency of the test was proved by the stability of environmental conditions, including temperature, humidity and CO2 levels, as well as constant concentrations of grass pollen at predetermined levels ranging from 1000 to 10,000 particles per cubic meter (p/m3). Allergic individuals developed symptoms at concentrations of 3000 p/m3 and above, across all measured endpoints. Lung function was not affected throughout all the challenges. The reproducibility of symptoms was confirmed throughout the tests. The concentration of 8000 p/m3 together with a challenge duration of 120 min was found to be optimal. CONCLUSION The study demonstrates that the ALLEC® grass pollen exposure chamber provides a reliable and safe method for inducing repeatable symptoms in patients with allergic rhinitis. This approach can be effectively applied for allergy diagnostics and clinical endpoint determination during AIT.
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MESH Headings
- Humans
- Phleum/immunology
- Male
- Female
- Pollen/immunology
- Adult
- Allergens/immunology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/diagnosis
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/immunology
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/therapy
- Rhinitis, Allergic, Seasonal/physiopathology
- Rhinitis, Allergic/diagnosis
- Rhinitis, Allergic/therapy
- Rhinitis, Allergic/immunology
- Middle Aged
- Atmosphere Exposure Chambers
- Young Adult
- Reproducibility of Results
- Nasal Provocation Tests
- Respiratory Function Tests
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Kosowska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
- ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
| | | | - Sylwia Smolińska
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Ewa Wyrodek
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Bartosz Adamczak
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology, Wroclaw Medical University, Wroclaw, Poland
- ALL-MED Medical Research Institute, Wroclaw, Poland
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Yang WH, Kelly S, Haya L, Mehri R, Ramesh D, DeVeaux M, Wang CQ, Meier P, Narula S, Shawki F, Pennington R, Perlee L, O'Brien MP. Cat allergen exposure in a naturalistic exposure chamber: a prospective observational study in cat-allergic subjects. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 52:265-275. [PMID: 34962661 PMCID: PMC9303194 DOI: 10.1111/cea.14087] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2021] [Revised: 12/06/2021] [Accepted: 12/25/2021] [Indexed: 12/01/2022]
Abstract
Background To determine the proportion and reproducibility of cat‐allergic mild asthmatics with early asthmatic response (EAR) during cat allergen exposure in a naturalistic exposure chamber (NEC). Methods This was a prospective, observational study in 30 cat‐allergic mild asthmatics who received two 180‐min cat‐allergen (Felis domesticus allergen 1 [Fel d 1]) challenges 27 days apart in an NEC. Results An EAR (≥20% reduction from baseline in forced expiratory volume in 1 s [FEV1]) was observed in 67% and 52% of subjects at first and second NEC exposure, respectively, with similar median time to EAR; 44% of subjects had an EAR on days 1 and 28. Late asthmatic response (≥15% reduction in FEV1 within 24 h of NEC exit) was observed in 33% of subjects following either exposure. Average FEV1 and total nasal symptom score during NEC exposure were highly correlated within subjects between NEC exposures (r = 0.91, p < 0.0001; r = 0.73, p < 0.001), but total ocular symptom score was not. Time to EAR, but not average FEV1, was significantly associated with NEC Fel d 1 concentration, which was variable. There were no serious adverse events; 12/30 subjects experienced 20 adverse events (including asthma, 10%; headache, 10%). Conclusions The NEC model demonstrates that average FEV1 change is highly reproducible and has a low correlation with cat allergen levels. However, time to EAR and incidence of EAR are less reproducible and are highly correlated with NEC allergen levels. Average FEV1, rather than incidence of EAR or time to EAR, could be considered as an endpoint for interventional trials testing cat‐specific anti‐allergy therapies using an NEC.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Laura Haya
- Red Maple Trials, Inc., Ottawa, ON, Canada
| | - Rym Mehri
- Red Maple Trials, Inc., Ottawa, ON, Canada
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Pfaar O, Bergmann K, Bonini S, Compalati E, Domis N, Blay F, Kam P, Devillier P, Durham SR, Ellis AK, Gherasim A, Haya L, Hohlfeld JM, Horak F, Iinuma T, Jacobs RL, Jacobi HH, Jutel M, Kaul S, Kelly S, Klimek L, Larché M, Lemell P, Mahler V, Nolte H, Okamoto Y, Patel P, Rabin RL, Rather C, Sager A, Salapatek AM, Sigsgaard T, Togias A, Willers C, Yang WH, Zieglmayer R, Zuberbier T, Zieglmayer P. Technical standards in allergen exposure chambers worldwide - an EAACI Task Force Report. Allergy 2021; 76:3589-3612. [PMID: 34028057 DOI: 10.1111/all.14957] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/02/2021] [Revised: 04/23/2021] [Accepted: 05/07/2021] [Indexed: 12/14/2022]
Abstract
Allergen exposure chambers (AECs) can be used for controlled exposure to allergenic and non-allergenic airborne particles in an enclosed environment, in order to (i) characterize the pathological features of respiratory diseases and (ii) contribute to and accelerate the clinical development of pharmacological treatments and allergen immunotherapy for allergic disease of the respiratory tract (such as allergic rhinitis, allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, and allergic asthma). In the guidelines of the European Medicines Agency for the clinical development of products for allergen immunotherapy (AIT), the role of AECs in determining primary endpoints in dose-finding Phase II trials is emphasized. Although methodologically insulated from the variability of natural pollen exposure, chamber models remain confined to supporting secondary, rather than primary, endpoints in Phase III registration trials. The need for further validation in comparison with field exposure is clearly mandated. On this basis, the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) initiated a Task Force in 2015 charged to gain a better understanding of how AECs can generate knowledge about respiratory allergies and can contribute to the clinical development of treatments. Researchers working with AECs worldwide were asked to provide technical information in eight sections: (i) dimensions and structure of the AEC, (ii) AEC staff, (iii) airflow, air processing, and operating conditions, (iv) particle dispersal, (v) pollen/particle counting, (vi) safety and non-contamination measures, (vii) procedures for symptom assessments, (viii) tested allergens/substances and validation procedures. On this basis, a minimal set of technical requirements for AECs applied to the field of allergology is proposed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Oliver Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery Section of Rhinology and Allergy University Hospital Marburg Philipps‐Universität Marburg Marburg Germany
| | - Karl‐Christian Bergmann
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Department of Dermatology and Allergy Allergy Centre Charité Berlin Germany
| | - Sergio Bonini
- Institute of Translational Medicine Italian National Research Council Rome Italy
| | | | - Nathalie Domis
- ALYATEC Environmental Exposure Chamber Strasbourg France
| | - Frédéric Blay
- ALYATEC Environmental Exposure Chamber Strasbourg France
- Chest Diseases Department Strasbourg University Hospital Strasbourg France
| | | | - Philippe Devillier
- Department of Airway Diseases Pharmacology Research Laboratory‐VIM Suresnes, Exhalomics Platform, Hôpital Foch University Paris‐Saclay Suresnes France
| | | | - Anne K. Ellis
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Sciences Queen's University Kingston ON Canada
- Allergy Research Unit Kingston General Health Research Institute Kingston ON Canada
| | - Alina Gherasim
- ALYATEC Environmental Exposure Chamber Strasbourg France
| | | | - Jens M. Hohlfeld
- Fraunhofer Institute for Toxicology and Experimental Medicine and Department of Respiratory Medicine Hannover Medical School Member of the German Center for Lung Research Hannover Germany
| | | | | | | | | | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology Wroclaw Medical University Wroclaw Poland
- All‐MED Medical Research Institute Wrocław Poland
| | | | | | - Ludger Klimek
- Center for Rhinology and Allergology Wiesbaden Germany
- Allergy Center Rhineland‐Palatinate Mainz University Medical Center Mainz Germany
| | - Mark Larché
- Divisions of Clinical Immunology & Allergy, and Respirology Department of Medicine and Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health McMaster University Hamilton ON Canada
| | | | | | | | | | - Piyush Patel
- Cliantha Research Limited Mississauga ON Canada
- Providence Therapeutics Toronto ON Canada
| | - Ronald L. Rabin
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research US Food and Drug Administration Silver Spring MD USA
| | | | | | | | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment Occupation and Health Danish Ramazzini Centre Aarhus University Aarhus Denmark
| | - Alkis Togias
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Transplantation (DAIT) National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases NIH Bethesda MD USA
| | | | | | | | - Torsten Zuberbier
- Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin corporate member of Freie Universität Berlin Humboldt‐Universität zu Berlin, and Berlin Institute of Health Department of Dermatology and Allergy Allergy Centre Charité Berlin Germany
| | - Petra Zieglmayer
- Vienna Challenge Chamber Vienna Austria
- Karl Landsteiner University Krems Austria
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Samra SK, Rajasekaran A, Sandford AJ, Ellis AK, Tebbutt SJ. Cholinergic Synapse Pathway Gene Polymorphisms Associated With Late-Phase Responses in Allergic Rhinitis. FRONTIERS IN ALLERGY 2021; 2:724328. [PMID: 35387037 PMCID: PMC8974783 DOI: 10.3389/falgy.2021.724328] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/12/2021] [Accepted: 07/26/2021] [Indexed: 01/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is characterized by an early-phase response (EPR), and in a subgroup of individuals, a late-phase response (LPR). We sought to investigate polymorphisms in cholinergic synapse pathway genes, previously associated with late-asthmatic responses, in the LPR. Twenty healthy participants and 74 participants with AR underwent allergen exposure using the Environmental Exposure Unit. Allergic participants were sub-phenotyped using self-reported nasal congestion scores; congestion is the predominant symptom experienced during the LPR. Acute congestion (AC, n = 36) participants developed only an EPR, while persistent congestion (PC, n = 38) participants developed both allergic responses. We interrogated blood samples collected before allergen exposure with genotyping and gene expression assays. Twenty-five SNPs located in ADCY3, AKT3, CACNA1S, CHRM3, CHRNB2, GNG4, and KCNQ4 had significantly different allele frequencies (P < 0.10) between PC and AC participants. PC participants had increased minor allele content (P = 0.009) in the 25 SNPs compared to AC participants. Two SNPs in AKT3 were associated with gene expression differences (FDR < 0.01) in PC participants. This study identified an association between the LPR and polymorphisms in the cholinergic synapse pathway genes, and developed a novel method to sub-phenotype AR using self-reported nasal congestion scores.
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Affiliation(s)
- Simranjit K. Samra
- Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Prevention of Organ Failure (PROOF) Centre of Excellence, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Ashwini Rajasekaran
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Prevention of Organ Failure (PROOF) Centre of Excellence, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Andrew J. Sandford
- Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Respiratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
| | - Anne K. Ellis
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Science, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Scott J. Tebbutt
- Experimental Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Centre for Heart Lung Innovation, St. Paul's Hospital, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Prevention of Organ Failure (PROOF) Centre of Excellence, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- Department of Medicine, Division of Respiratory Medicine, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
- *Correspondence: Scott J. Tebbutt
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Ellis AK, DeVeaux M, Steacy L, Ramesh D, Suprun M, Langdon S, Wang CQ, Adams D, Thiele J, Walker T, Perlee LT, O'Brien MP. Environmental exposure unit simulates natural seasonal birch pollen exposures while maximizing change in allergic symptoms. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2021; 127:488-495.e5. [PMID: 34186172 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2021.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2021] [Revised: 06/07/2021] [Accepted: 06/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Birch pollen is a prevalent aeroallergen during the springtime allergy season. In field studies, variable allergen exposure and environmental factors can affect data quality while environmental exposure units (EEUs) deliver controlled, standardized, and reproducible allergen exposures. OBJECTIVE To inform study design for EEU trials evaluating antiallergic therapies. METHODS In this prospective study, 76 participants with birch allergy experienced 3 exposures to birch pollen: (1) an out-of-season EEU challenge (two 3-hour sessions on consecutive days); (2) a natural seasonal exposure; and (3) an in-season EEU challenge (3-hour exposure for 2 weeks after birch pollen season initiation). RESULTS The total nasal symptom score, total ocular symptom score, and total symptom score (TSS = total nasal symptom score plus total ocular symptom score) were assessed every 30 minutes and daily during EEU and natural exposures. A high association between TSSs and day 2 of the out-of-season and in-season EEU challenges was noted, with a good association between the maximum TSS during the natural and in-season EEU challenges, and natural season and day 2 of the out-of-season EEU challenge (P < .001 for all). Participants had higher maximum change from the baseline TSS during day 2 of the out-of-season EEU challenge (12.4) vs the following: (1) first day (9.8); (2) in-season EEU challenge (8.4); and (3) natural seasonal exposure (7.6) (P < .001 for all). CONCLUSION A strong association was seen between the presence of allergy symptoms and exposure to birch pollen in the EEU (maximum change in symptom scores during day 2) and in the field. A hybrid trial design may be useful to demonstrate the clinical efficacy of novel antiallergic therapies requiring fewer participants and shorter timelines and expediting treatment availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Lisa Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Divya Ramesh
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York
| | - Maria Suprun
- Department of Pediatrics, Allergy, and Immunology, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, New York
| | - Shaun Langdon
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York
| | - Claire Q Wang
- Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Tarrytown, New York
| | - Daniel Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jenny Thiele
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terry Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Comparative nasal airflow with loratadine-pseudoephedrine and fluticasone nasal spray for allergic rhinitis. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2021; 127:342-348.e2. [PMID: 34000435 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2021.05.001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2021] [Revised: 04/07/2021] [Accepted: 05/03/2021] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Although it is known that oral antihistamine-pseudoephedrine combination tablets have a faster onset than intranasal corticosteroid sprays in the treatment of allergic rhinitis after the first dose, the magnitude of change has not been measured in a comparative manner. Furthermore, the sensation of sprayed liquid in the nose may lead patients to mistakenly believe that intranasal steroid sprays work instantly. OBJECTIVE To evaluate, numerically, nasal airflow changes provided by a single dose of loratadine-pseudoephedrine tablet (LP) and fluticasone propionate nasal spray (FP) in participants experiencing allergic rhinitis symptoms, including nasal congestion. METHODS This single-center, double-blinded, placebo-controlled, crossover study evaluated objective nasal airflow changes in patients with a documented sensitivity to ragweed pollen. Participants were randomized to receive 1 of 4 treatment sequences, and their peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) was measured in a span of 4 hours after pollen exposure in an environmental exposure unit. RESULTS Average change in PNIF was 31% with LP in the course of the study, significantly greater than with placebo and FP (12% and 15%, respectively; P < .001). Nevertheless, FP did not produce a significant change compared with its placebo. At hour one post-dose, LP had a clinically significant 31% increase in PNIF, whereas FP only yielded an 8.6% increase (P < .001). Measurable nasal airflow improvements are associated with the opening of nasal passages, allowing congested patients to breathe more freely. CONCLUSION A single dose of LP quickly and significantly (P < .001) improved nasal airflow after ragweed pollen challenge in an environmental exposure unit. Comparatively, FP did not display this same benefit. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov Identifier: NCT03443843.
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Hossenbaccus L, Ellis AK. The use of nasal allergen vs allergen exposure chambers to evaluate allergen immunotherapy. Expert Rev Clin Immunol 2021; 17:461-470. [PMID: 33729907 DOI: 10.1080/1744666x.2021.1905523] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease-modifying treatment option for allergic rhinitis (AR) patients with persistent moderate-severe AR for whom traditional pharmacotherapies are ineffective. The nasal allergen challenge (NAC) and allergen exposure chamber (AEC) are two translational models of AR that can be used to investigate the properties, safety, and efficacy of AIT. AREAS COVERED Peer-reviewed, human-centered articles utilizing AEC or NAC models to investigate AIT between 2010 and 2020 were curated from PubMed, EMBASE, and OVID Medline databases. AECs have been used to evaluate traditional subcutaneous and sublingual administrations of AIT, including cross-protective effects and different dosing regimens. More recently, the effectiveness of novel AIT formulations has been evaluated. NACs are another model used to study AIT, including using novel intralymphatic routes of administration. It is an especially powerful and versatile tool to determine if basic science and animal model findings are clinically translatable. EXPERT OPINION The AEC and NAC models both produce clinically relevant and reproducible results. AECs are more effective for studying many participants but are limited because they require a specialized facility. As more AIT therapies and new formulations are developed over time, the versatility of the NAC will be especially useful.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubnaa Hossenbaccus
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada.,Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Centre - KGH Site, Kingston, Canada
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada.,Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Centre - KGH Site, Kingston, Canada.,Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Canada
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Ellis AK, Murrieta-Aguttes M, Furey S, Picard P, Carlsten C. Effect of fexofenadine hydrochloride on allergic rhinitis aggravated by air pollutants. ERJ Open Res 2021; 7:00806-2020. [PMID: 33834054 PMCID: PMC8021806 DOI: 10.1183/23120541.00806-2020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/30/2020] [Accepted: 01/18/2021] [Indexed: 11/27/2022] Open
Abstract
In recent decades, seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) prevalence has increased and recent studies have shown that air pollutants, such as diesel exhaust particles (DEP), can increase inflammatory and allergic biomarkers. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of DEP on SAR symptoms induced by ragweed and to evaluate the efficacy and safety of fexofenadine HCl 180 mg versus placebo. This phase 3, single-centre, sequential, parallel-group, double-blind, randomised study (NCT03664882) was conducted in an environmental exposure unit (EEU) during sequential exposures: Period 1 (ragweed pollen alone), Period 2 (ragweed pollen+DEP), and Period 3 (ragweed pollen+DEP+single-dose fexofenadine HCl 180 mg or placebo). Efficacy and safety were evaluated in Period 3. Primary endpoints were the area under the curve (AUC) of total nasal symptom score (TNSS) from baseline to hour 12 (AUC0–12) during Period 1 and Period 2; and the AUC of the TNSS from hour 2 to 12 (AUC2–12) during Period 3. 251 out of 257 evaluable subjects were included in the modified intent-to-treat population. Least squares mean difference (95% CI) for TNSS Log AUC0−12 in Period 2 versus Period 1 was 0.13 (0.081–0.182; p<0.0001). Least squares mean difference in TNSS Log AUC2−12 for fexofenadine HCl versus placebo during Period 3 was −0.24 (−0.425–−0.047; p=0.0148). One fexofenadine HCl-related adverse event was observed. SAR symptoms evoked by ragweed were aggravated by DEP. Fexofenadine HCl 180 mg was effective in relieving pollen-induced, air pollution-aggravated allergic rhinitis symptoms. This is the first randomised, double-blind, large study to demonstrate the beneficial effect of a histamine H1-receptor antagonist by reducing ragweed pollen-induced seasonal allergic rhinitis symptoms aggravated by controlled exposure to air pollutantshttps://bit.ly/3oauMFu
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Dept of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | | | - Sandy Furey
- Sanofi Consumer Health Care, Bridgewater, MA, USA
| | | | - Christopher Carlsten
- Air Pollution Exposure Laboratory, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC, Canada
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Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Amrol DJ, Baroody FM, Bernstein JA, Craig TJ, Dinakar C, Ellis AK, Finegold I, Golden DBK, Greenhawt MJ, Hagan JB, Horner CC, Khan DA, Lang DM, Larenas-Linnemann DES, Lieberman JA, Meltzer EO, Oppenheimer JJ, Rank MA, Shaker MS, Shaw JL, Steven GC, Stukus DR, Wang J, Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Dinakar C, Ellis AK, Golden DBK, Greenhawt MJ, Horner CC, Khan DA, Lang DM, Lieberman JA, Oppenheimer JJ, Rank MA, Shaker MS, Stukus DR, Wang J, Dykewicz MS, Wallace DV, Amrol DJ, Baroody FM, Bernstein JA, Craig TJ, Finegold I, Hagan JB, Larenas-Linnemann DES, Meltzer EO, Shaw JL, Steven GC. Rhinitis 2020: A practice parameter update. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2020; 146:721-767. [PMID: 32707227 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.07.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 138] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2020] [Revised: 06/22/2020] [Accepted: 07/01/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
This comprehensive practice parameter for allergic rhinitis (AR) and nonallergic rhinitis (NAR) provides updated guidance on diagnosis, assessment, selection of monotherapy and combination pharmacologic options, and allergen immunotherapy for AR. Newer information about local AR is reviewed. Cough is emphasized as a common symptom in both AR and NAR. Food allergy testing is not recommended in the routine evaluation of rhinitis. Intranasal corticosteroids (INCS) remain the preferred monotherapy for persistent AR, but additional studies support the additive benefit of combination treatment with INCS and intranasal antihistamines in both AR and NAR. Either intranasal antihistamines or INCS may be offered as first-line monotherapy for NAR. Montelukast should only be used for AR if there has been an inadequate response or intolerance to alternative therapies. Depot parenteral corticosteroids are not recommended for treatment of AR due to potential risks. While intranasal decongestants generally should be limited to short-term use to prevent rebound congestion, in limited circumstances, patients receiving regimens that include an INCS may be offered, in addition, an intranasal decongestant for up to 4 weeks. Neither acupuncture nor herbal products have adequate studies to support their use for AR. Oral decongestants should be avoided during the first trimester of pregnancy. Recommendations for use of subcutaneous and sublingual tablet allergen immunotherapy in AR are provided. Algorithms based on a combination of evidence and expert opinion are provided to guide in the selection of pharmacologic options for intermittent and persistent AR and NAR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark S Dykewicz
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Division of Infectious Diseases, Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, Saint Louis University, St Louis, Mo.
| | - Dana V Wallace
- Department of Medicine, Nova Southeastern Allopathic Medical School, Fort Lauderdale, Fla
| | - David J Amrol
- Department of Internal Medicine, School of Medicine, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC
| | - Fuad M Baroody
- Department of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery, Pritzker School of Medicine, University of Chicago, Chicago, Ill
| | - Jonathan A Bernstein
- Allergy Section, Division of Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
| | - Timothy J Craig
- Departments of Medicine and Pediatrics, Penn State University, Hershey, Pa
| | - Chitra Dinakar
- Division of Pulmonary, Allergy and Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ira Finegold
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Mount Sinai West, New York, NY
| | - David B K Golden
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine, School of Medicine, John Hopkins University, Baltimore, Md
| | - Matthew J Greenhawt
- Section of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, Children's Hospital Colorado, School of Medicine, University of Colorado, Aurora, Colo
| | - John B Hagan
- Division of Allergic Diseases, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, Minn
| | - Caroline C Horner
- Division of Allergy, Immunology and Pulmonary Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Washington University, St Louis, Mo
| | - David A Khan
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center, Dallas, Tex
| | - David M Lang
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Respiratory Institute, Cleveland Clinic Lerner College of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, Ohio
| | | | - Jay A Lieberman
- Division of Pulmonology Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The University of Tennessee Health Science Center, Memphis, Tenn
| | - Eli O Meltzer
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, University of California, San Diego, Calif; Allergy and Asthma Medical Group and Research Center, San Diego, Calif
| | - John J Oppenheimer
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine and Allergic & Immunologic Diseases, Department of Internal Medicine, University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey-Rutgers New Jersey Medical School, New Brunswick, NJ; Pulmonary and Allergy Associates, Morristown, NJ
| | - Matthew A Rank
- Division of Allergy, Asthma, and Clinical Immunology, Mayo Clinic in Arizona, Scottsdale, Ariz
| | - Marcus S Shaker
- Department of Pediatrics, Dartmouth-Hitchcock Medical Center, Lebanon, NH
| | | | | | - David R Stukus
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Nationwide Children's Hospital, Columbus, Ohio; Department of Pediatrics, College of Medicine, The Ohio State University, Columbus, Ohio
| | - Julie Wang
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Pediatrics, The Elliot and Roslyn Jaffe Food Allergy Institute, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY
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Hossenbaccus L, Steacy LM, Walker T, Ellis AK. Utility of Environmental Exposure Unit Challenge Protocols for the Study of Allergic Rhinitis Therapies. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2020; 20:34. [PMID: 32506346 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-020-00922-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/24/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This paper explores how the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) experimental model can be used to further our understanding of pharmacotherapies and immunotherapies for the treatment of allergic rhinitis (AR). RECENT FINDINGS EEUs are used increasingly for the study of combination therapies, immunotherapies, and novel AR treatments. A combined antihistamine/corticosteroid nasal spray formulation was seen to have a faster onset of action relative to the therapies individually in the Environmental Exposure Chamber. House dust mite sublingual immunotherapy tablets are both safe and efficacious as evaluated by the Vienna Challenge Chamber. The Kingston EEU found that a novel peptide-based immunotherapy approach to be effective in reducing grass pollen-induced AR. Lastly, nasal filters were determined to reduce seasonal AR symptoms, given out-of-season in the Denmark Environmental Exposure Unit. EEUs are controlled, replicable models that provide valuable insight into the efficacy, onset and duration of action, and dose-related impacts of AR therapeutics, with direct clinical relevance.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lubnaa Hossenbaccus
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.,Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Center - KGH Site, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Center - KGH Site, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Terry Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Center - KGH Site, Kingston, ON, Canada
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada. .,Allergy Research Unit, Kingston Health Sciences Center - KGH Site, Kingston, ON, Canada. .,Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON, Canada.
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11
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Larson D, Patel P, Salapatek AM, Couroux P, Whitehouse D, Pina A, Johnson JL, Sever ML, Sanda S, Poyser J, Allio T, Scadding GW, Qin T, Shamji MH, Kwok WW, James EA, French D, Lelic A, Larché M, Altman MC, Togias A, Durham SR. Nasal allergen challenge and environmental exposure chamber challenge: A randomized trial comparing clinical and biological responses to cat allergen. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2020; 145:1585-1597. [PMID: 32169380 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2020.02.024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2019] [Revised: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 02/27/2020] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The direct-instillation nasal allergen challenge (NAC) and the environmental exposure chamber (EEC) are 2 methods of conducting controlled allergen provocations. The clinical and biological comparability of these methods has not been thoroughly investigated. OBJECTIVE We sought to compare clinical and immunologic responses to cat allergen in NAC versus EEC. METHODS Twenty-four participants were randomized to receive either NAC followed by a 2-day challenge in an EEC or a 2-day challenge in an EEC followed by NAC. Challenges were separated by 28-day washout periods. We measured total nasal symptom scores, peak nasal inspiratory flow, nasal (0-8 hours) and serum cytokines, serum antibodies, peripheral blood antigen-specific T lymphocytes, and gene expression in nasal scrapings. The primary outcome was the total nasal symptom score area under the curve for the first 3 hours after allergen exposure in NAC or after initiation of exposure in EEC. RESULTS Both challenges increased IL-5 and IL-13 in nasal fluids and serum and resulted in altered nasal cell expression of gene modules related to mucosal biology and transcriptional regulation. Changes in gene modules, more so than cytokine measurements, showed significant associations with total nasal symptom score and peak nasal inspiratory flow. Overall, EEC exposure generated larger responses and more early terminations compared with NAC. Although the 2 challenges did not correlate in symptom magnitude or temporality, striking correlations were observed in cytokine levels. CONCLUSIONS Although clinical outcomes of NAC and EEC were temporally different and nonequivalent in magnitude, immunologic responses were similar. Selection of a particular allergen challenge method should depend on considerations of study objectives and cost.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Piyush Patel
- Inflamax Research Limited, DBA Cliantha Research, Mississauga, Canada
| | | | - Peter Couroux
- Inflamax Research Limited, DBA Cliantha Research, Mississauga, Canada
| | | | - Adela Pina
- Rho Federal Systems Division, Durham, NC
| | | | | | | | - Julian Poyser
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Md
| | - Theresa Allio
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Md
| | - Guy W Scadding
- MRC and Asthma UK, Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, United Kingdom
| | - Tielin Qin
- The Immune Tolerance Network, Bethesda, Md
| | - Mohamed H Shamji
- MRC and Asthma UK, Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, United Kingdom; Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section of Inflammation Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - William W Kwok
- Benaroya Research Institute, Department of Translational Research, Seattle, Wash
| | - Eddie A James
- Benaroya Research Institute, Department of Translational Research, Seattle, Wash
| | | | - Alina Lelic
- Human Immunology Testing Suite, McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark Larché
- McMaster University, Hamilton, Ontario, Canada; Divisions of Clinical Immunology & Allergy and Respirology, Department of Medicine, Firestone Institute of Respiratory Health, The Research Institute, St Joe's Hamilton, Hamilton, Canada
| | - Matthew C Altman
- Department of Medicine, University of Washington, Seattle, Wash; Benaroya Research Institute, Systems Immunology Division, Seattle, Wash
| | - Alkis Togias
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Md
| | - Stephen R Durham
- MRC and Asthma UK, Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, United Kingdom; Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section of Inflammation Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
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12
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Ellis AK, Frankish CW, Armstrong K, Steacy L, Tenn MW, Pawsey S, Hafner RP. Persistence of the clinical effect of grass allergen peptide immunotherapy after the second and third grass pollen seasons. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2019; 145:610-618.e9. [PMID: 31568796 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2019.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/09/2019] [Revised: 07/26/2019] [Accepted: 09/04/2019] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Grass allergen peptides are in development for the treatment of grass pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. A previous randomized, placebo-controlled study demonstrated that grass allergen peptides significantly improved total rhinoconjunctivitis symptom scores (TRSSs) after posttreatment challenge (PTC) to rye grass in an environmental exposure unit after 1 intervening grass pollen season (GPS1). OBJECTIVE We sought to evaluate the efficacy/safety of 4 dosing regimens of grass allergen peptides after a second (GPS2) and third (GPS3) intervening GPS in the environmental exposure unit. METHODS Eligible subjects who were randomized in the parent study (GPS1) during the first year of recruitment were invited to participate in GPS2 and GPS3, which took place 1 and 2 years after treatment cessation, respectively. Participants were not treated further, and both participants and study personnel remained blinded. The primary efficacy end point was the change in mean TRSS (reported every 30 minutes) from GPS1 baseline to the follow-up PTC calculated across all time points over days 2 to 4 for GPS2 and across hours 1 to 3 over days 2 to 4 for GPS3. Secondary efficacy end points and safety were also assessed. RESULTS One hundred twenty-two and 85 participants were enrolled in GPS2 and GPS3, respectively. A numerically greater, but not statistically significant improvement from baseline in mean TRSS at PTC was observed in the group receiving one 6-nmol intradermal injection every 2 weeks for 14 weeks group compared with the placebo at GPS2 (-6.0 vs -3.6, P = .0535) and GPS3 (-6.2 vs -3.6, P = .1128). Similar findings were observed for the group receiving one 6-nmol intradermal injection every 2 weeks for 14 weeks at GPS3 (-6.4 vs -3.6, P = .0759). No adverse safety signals were detected. CONCLUSION Treatment with grass allergen peptides led to an improvement in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms after 3 intervening GPSs, corresponding to up to 2 years off treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | | | - Lisa Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mark W Tenn
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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13
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Tenn MW, Steacy LM, Adams DE, Walker TJ, Ellis AK. Comparison of allergic rhinitis outcomes of the environmental exposure unit and nasal allergen challenge model. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2019; 123:105-106.e1. [PMID: 30959101 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2019.04.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/11/2019] [Revised: 03/21/2019] [Accepted: 04/01/2019] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Tenn
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel E Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terry J Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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14
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Ellis AK, Jacobs RL, Tenn MW, Steacy LM, Adams DE, Walker TJ, Togias A, Ramirez DA, Andrews CP, Visness CM, James RL, Rather CG. Clinical standardization of two controlled allergen challenge facilities: The Environmental Exposure Unit and the Biogenics Research Chamber. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2019; 122:639-646.e2. [PMID: 30878629 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2019.03.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/05/2018] [Revised: 02/09/2019] [Accepted: 03/06/2019] [Indexed: 10/27/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Controlled allergen challenge facilities (CACF), in disparate geographic regions with dissimilar engineering and base populations, have historically functioned as single, independent sites in clinical allergy trials. We aimed to demonstrate "between-unit reproducibility" to allow controlled challenge trials of participants using 2 CACFs. OBJECTIVE To compare and standardize 2 CACFs located in Kingston, Ontario, Canada, and San Antonio, Texas, by examining participant-reported symptom severity during qualifying and treatment visits and evaluating response to treatment, while using the same allergen. METHODS At 2 different CACFs, participants were enrolled in a double-blind, placebo-controlled, crossover intervention trial with cetirizine 10 mg. Different distribution devices delivered common short ragweed pollen via laminar air flow and maintained an airborne concentration of 3500 ± 700 grains/m3 in both facilities. A 1-hour "sham" run with no pollen release preceded a priming exposure of 3 hours and was followed 3 days later by a qualifying/treatment 5-hour exposure. At least 14 days later, another priming exposure was followed by the crossover exposure and treatment. RESULTS Forty-eight and 43 subjects completed the study at Kingston and San Antonio, respectively. Demographics were similar. Fewer than 10% exhibited symptoms with sham exposure. No significant differences were found between the 2 facilities in maximal total rhinoconjunctivitis symptom score, total nasal symptom score, and total ocular symptom score, nor in areas under the curve. In both facilities, no significant effects of cetirizine 10 mg over placebo were detected. CONCLUSION The results were equivalent, demonstrating that the 2 CACFs can be used together in dual-center clinical trials and show the possibility of multicenter trials involving multiple CACFs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | | | - Mark W Tenn
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel E Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terry J Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Alkis Togias
- National Institute of Allergy and Infectious Diseases, Bethesda, Maryland
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15
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Ellis AK. Novel application of the controlled allergen challenge facility model. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2019; 116:481-2. [PMID: 27264561 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.04.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2016] [Revised: 04/22/2016] [Accepted: 04/28/2016] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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16
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Gomes PJ, Abelson MB, Stein L, Viirre E, Villafranca JE, Lasser EC. Iodixanol nasal solution reduces allergic rhinoconjunctivitis signs and symptoms in Allergen BioCube ®: a randomized clinical trial. J Asthma Allergy 2019; 12:71-81. [PMID: 30881050 PMCID: PMC6400136 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s150251] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Purpose Allergic rhinitis (AR) affects ~20% of the population worldwide. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the safety and efficacy of iodixanol nasal solution (Nasapaque) for AR treatment, using the Allergen BioCube® (ABC®), an environmental exposure unit. Iodixanol is a commonly used contrast media agent that shows efficacy on the signs and symptoms of AR. Patients and methods Seventy-three adult subjects with AR were randomized to iodixanol or placebo treatment in a double-masked efficacy and safety study conducted outside of ragweed pollen season. In-office treatment was administered after BioCube® ragweed pollen exposure, and again 8 days later prior to ragweed exposure. Nasal and ocular efficacy and safety assessments were conducted before and after treatment. Results Iodixanol treatment resulted in statistically significantly lower total nasal symptom scores as compared to placebo at several time points post-treatment and ABC exposure. Individual nasal and ocular symptoms, notably nasal itching and ocular itching, showed evidence of lower scores in the iodixanol group. Peak nasal inspiratory flow (PNIF) improved (9%–16%) with iodixanol from baseline as compared to PNIF in the placebo group which ranged from 3% worsening to improvement of 2%. Few (9) adverse events occurred. Conclusion Iodixanol nasal solution demonstrated efficacy for relief of several nasal and ocular allergic rhinoconjunctivitis signs and symptoms, and was safe and well tolerated in this early Phase II exploratory trial. Further studies with iodixanol are warranted. Allergy challenge models such as the ABC provide valuable assessments of allergen exposures and drug efficacies. Study Identification Number NCT02377895
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Affiliation(s)
- Paul J Gomes
- Allergy Department, Ora, Inc., Andover, MA, USA,
| | - Mark B Abelson
- Allergy Department, Ora, Inc., Andover, MA, USA, .,Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
| | - Linda Stein
- Allergy Department, Ora, Inc., Andover, MA, USA,
| | - Erik Viirre
- 3E Therapeutics Corporation, La Jolla, CA, USA
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17
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Sierra-Heredia C, North M, Brook J, Daly C, Ellis AK, Henderson D, Henderson SB, Lavigne É, Takaro TK. Aeroallergens in Canada: Distribution, Public Health Impacts, and Opportunities for Prevention. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2018; 15:E1577. [PMID: 30044421 PMCID: PMC6121311 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph15081577] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 07/04/2018] [Accepted: 07/18/2018] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
Aeroallergens occur naturally in the environment and are widely dispersed across Canada, yet their public health implications are not well-understood. This review intends to provide a scientific and public health-oriented perspective on aeroallergens in Canada: their distribution, health impacts, and new developments including the effects of climate change and the potential role of aeroallergens in the development of allergies and asthma. The review also describes anthropogenic effects on plant distribution and diversity, and how aeroallergens interact with other environmental elements, such as air pollution and weather events. Increased understanding of the relationships between aeroallergens and health will enhance our ability to provide accurate information, improve preventive measures and provide timely treatments for affected populations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Michelle North
- Institute of Medical Science, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M5S 3H7, Canada.
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Jeff Brook
- Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON M3H 5T4, Canada.
| | - Christina Daly
- Air Quality Health Index, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada.
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 3N6, Canada.
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7, Canada.
| | - Dave Henderson
- Health and Air Quality Services, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, QC K1A 0H3, Canada.
| | - Sarah B Henderson
- Environmental Health Services, BC Centre for Disease Control, Vancouver, BC V5Z 4R4, Canada.
- School of Population and Public Health, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, BC V6T 1Z3, Canada.
| | - Éric Lavigne
- Air Health Science Division, Health Canada, Ottawa, ON K1A 0K9, Canada.
- School of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa, Ottawa, ON K1G 5Z3, Canada.
| | - Tim K Takaro
- Faculty of Health Sciences, Simon Fraser University, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada.
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Mechanism of Synthetic Peptide Immuno-Regulatory Epitopes and Their Clinical Efficacy in the Treatment of Allergic Disease. CURRENT TREATMENT OPTIONS IN ALLERGY 2018. [DOI: 10.1007/s40521-018-0177-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/26/2022]
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19
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Pepper AN, Ledford DK. Nasal and ocular challenges. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2018; 141:1570-1577. [PMID: 29501480 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2017.11.066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/01/2017] [Revised: 11/09/2017] [Accepted: 11/21/2017] [Indexed: 12/29/2022]
Abstract
Nasal and ocular challenges facilitate the evaluation of subjective and objective responses to defined allergen or irritant exposure. Nasal and ocular allergen challenges are the gold standard to diagnose allergic rhinitis and conjunctivitis, respectively, and aid in the evaluation of novel therapies in clinical trials. Additionally, nasal and ocular allergen challenges might help identify medically relevant allergens in clinical practice. Nonspecific or irritant challenges evaluate mucosal hyperreactivity. Direct mucosal challenges, which can be performed in an office or research setting, expose the participant to higher allergen doses than common in the natural environment. Park studies and environmental chambers, which are most practical in clinical trials, more closely simulate natural allergen exposure. International consensus guidelines for nasal and ocular challenges do not exist. Therefore the positivity criteria, methodologies, and extract or allergen preparations used in challenges vary in the literature. Regardless of these limitations, nasal and ocular challenges are helpful clinical and research tools for nasal and ocular diseases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amber N Pepper
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine and James A. Haley Veterans' Affairs Hospital, Tampa, Fla
| | - Dennis K Ledford
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Internal Medicine, University of South Florida Morsani College of Medicine and James A. Haley Veterans' Affairs Hospital, Tampa, Fla.
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Ellis AK, Tenn MW, Steacy LM, Adams DE, Day AG, Walker TJ, Nolte H. Lack of effect of Timothy grass pollen sublingual immunotherapy tablet on birch pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis in an environmental exposure unit. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2018; 120:495-503.e2. [PMID: 29432967 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2018.02.003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2017] [Revised: 02/01/2018] [Accepted: 02/06/2018] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Timothy grass pollen allergen extract tablets (Grastek) are standardized sublingual immunotherapy tablets (SLIT-T) approved for the treatment of grass pollen-induced allergic rhinitis (AR) and conjunctivitis. Many grass allergic patients are also cosensitized to birch pollen. Whether Timothy grass SLIT-T can confer symptomatic benefits for birch pollen-induced AR symptoms is unknown. OBJECTIVE To evaluate the treatment effect of Timothy grass SLIT-T for birch pollen-induced AR in participants sensitized to both grass and birch pollen using an environmental exposure unit (EEU). METHODS This study was a phase 4, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group study that enrolled participants aged 18 to 65 years allergic to both timothy grass and birch pollen. After a baseline EEU birch pollen challenge, in which a minimum total nasal symptom score (TNSS) of 6 of 12 was required for enrollment, participants were randomized to receive Timothy grass SLIT-T or placebo taken once daily for 4 months. No confirmatory grass pollen challenge was performed. The primary end point was the change in TNSS averaged from assessments from hours 2 to 5 during the posttreatment birch pollen challenge compared with baseline. The secondary and exploratory end points included temporally identical changes in total ocular symptom score (TOSS), total rhinoconjunctivitis symptom score (TRSS), and individual symptom scores. RESULTS The difference in TNSS reduction after 4 months of therapy between the Timothy grass SLIT-T and placebo group was not significant (P = .83). Reductions in TOSS (P = .19) and TRSS (P = .67) were also comparable between groups. Findings between groups for individual symptom scores were similar (all P > .40), except for watery eyes, in which symptom reduction was slightly better in the placebo arm (P = .01). Timothy grass SLIT-T was well tolerated, and no serious adverse effects occurred. CONCLUSION A bystander effect of grass SLIT-T on birch pollen-induced AR symptoms was not detected. Symptomatic benefits of grass SLIT-T are likely allergen specific. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT02394600.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Mark W Tenn
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Daniel E Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Andrew G Day
- Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Terry J Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Health Research Institute, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Tenn MW, Steacy LM, Ng CC, Ellis AK. Onset of action for loratadine tablets for the symptomatic control of seasonal allergic rhinitis in adults challenged with ragweed pollen in the Environmental Exposure Unit: a post hoc analysis of total symptom score. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2018; 14:5. [PMID: 29371864 PMCID: PMC5771028 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-017-0227-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2017] [Accepted: 12/15/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Loratadine is a second-generation, non-sedating antihistamine used for the relief of allergic rhinitis symptoms. Previous studies reported that when loratadine was encapsulated, the onset of action for symptom relief was 180 min. However, unmodified loratadine tablets were not evaluated at that time. Using data from a previously published Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) study comparing azelastine nasal spray with loratadine tablets, cetirizine tablets, and placebo, this post hoc analysis determines the onset of action of loratadine tablets (i.e. unmodified) by analyzing the total symptom score for the relief of nasal and ocular seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR) symptoms. Methods A Phase IV, randomized, single-center, double-blind, placebo-controlled, double-dummy, four-way crossover study was conducted in the EEU. Seventy participants were randomized sequentially into one of the four treatments during ragweed pollen exposure. Nasal and ocular symptom scores were self-reported by the participants and recorded. The original study analysis was carried out by evaluating the nasal symptom scores only. For this post hoc analysis, both nasal and ocular data from the loratadine and placebo treatment arms were analyzed. The primary endpoint for this analysis was the onset of action of loratadine as measured by the change in total symptom score (TSS) from baseline in comparison to placebo. The onset of ocular symptom relief using the total ocular symptom score (TOSS) was also reported. Results Loratadine tablets demonstrated a significant and durable improvement in both TSS (P = .005) and TOSS (P = .013) at 75 min post-treatment administration compared to placebo. The mean proportion of participants reporting none or mild for all component symptoms of TSS and TOSS at 75 min and thereafter was significantly higher in the loratadine (TSS, P = .0005; TOSS, P ≤ .0001) vs. placebo treatment arm. Conclusions The onset of action of loratadine tablets was 75 min for the relief of nasal and ocular symptoms in adults with SAR. These results suggest a faster onset of action for loratadine tablets (75 min) compared to previously reported studies which were conducted with modified (i.e. gelatin-encapsulated) loratadine tablets (180 min). Trial registration Clinicaltrials.gov identifier NCT00561717 Electronic supplementary material The online version of this article (10.1186/s13223-017-0227-4) contains supplementary material, which is available to authorized users.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mark W Tenn
- 1Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON Canada.,2Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON Canada.,3Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- 2Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON Canada
| | | | - Anne K Ellis
- 1Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, ON Canada.,2Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON Canada.,3Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
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North ML, Jones MJ, MacIsaac JL, Morin AM, Steacy LM, Gregor A, Kobor MS, Ellis AK. Blood and nasal epigenetics correlate with allergic rhinitis symptom development in the environmental exposure unit. Allergy 2018; 73:196-205. [PMID: 28755526 DOI: 10.1111/all.13263] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 07/25/2017] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Epigenetic alterations may represent new therapeutic targets and/or biomarkers of allergic rhinitis (AR). Our aim was to examine genome-wide epigenetic changes induced by controlled pollen exposure in the environmental exposure unit (EEU). METHODS 38 AR sufferers and eight nonallergic controls were exposed to grass pollen for 3 hours on two consecutive days. We interrogated DNA methylation at baseline and 3 hours in peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs) using the Infinium Methylation 450K array. We corrected for demographics, cell composition, and multiple testing (Benjamini-Hochberg) and verified hits using bisulfite PCR pyrosequencing and qPCR. To extend these findings to a clinically relevant tissue, we investigated DNA methylation and gene expression of mucin 4 (MUC4), in nasal brushings from a separate validation cohort exposed to birch pollen. RESULTS In PBMCs of allergic rhinitis participants, 42 sites showed significant DNA methylation changes of 2% or greater. DNA methylation changes in tryptase gamma 1 (TPSG1), schlafen 12 (SLFN12), and MUC4 in response to exposure were validated by pyrosequencing. SLFN12 DNA methylation significantly correlated with symptoms (P < 0.05), and baseline DNA methylation pattern was found to be predictive of symptom severity upon grass allergen exposure (P = 0.029). Changes in MUC4 DNA methylation in nasal brushings in the validation cohort correlated with drop in peak nasal inspiratory flow (Spearman's r = 0.314, P = 0.034), and MUC4 gene expression was significantly increased (P < 0.0001). CONCLUSION This study revealed novel and rapid epigenetic changes upon exposure in a controlled allergen challenge facility, and identified baseline epigenetic status as a predictor of symptom severity.
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Affiliation(s)
- M. L. North
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology Department of Medicine Queen's University Kingston ON Canada
- Allergy Research Unit Kingston General Hospital Kingston ON Canada
| | - M. J. Jones
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
| | - J. L. MacIsaac
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
| | - A. M. Morin
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
| | - L. M. Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit Kingston General Hospital Kingston ON Canada
| | - A. Gregor
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology Department of Medicine Queen's University Kingston ON Canada
| | - M. S. Kobor
- BC Children's Hospital Research Institute and Centre for Molecular Medicine & Therapeutics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
- Department of Medical Genetics University of British Columbia Vancouver BC Canada
| | - A. K. Ellis
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences and Division of Allergy & Immunology Department of Medicine Queen's University Kingston ON Canada
- Allergy Research Unit Kingston General Hospital Kingston ON Canada
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Ellis AK, Tenn MW. Advances in rhinitis: Models and mechanisms. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2017; 121:61-64. [PMID: 29157860 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2017.10.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2017] [Revised: 09/30/2017] [Accepted: 10/04/2017] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To summarize studies highlighting recent advances in rhinitis-related research in the past 2 years. DATA SOURCES Original research articles were procured and examined from the Rhinitis and Upper Airway Disease section of the 2015 to 2017 Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology issues. Additional original research articles were identified from PubMed and Google Scholar using the following search terms: allergic rhinitis, rhinitis, chronic rhinosinusitis, environmental exposure unit, and nasal allergen challenge. Only research articles published in the past 2 years were procured. STUDY SELECTIONS Articles conducting research in allergic rhinitis (AR) or chronic rhinosinusitis or using controlled allergen challenge facilities or the nasal allergen challenge model were selected. RESULTS Studies in the past 2 years have focused on using skin prick tests and early-life phenotyping to predict AR development in children. They also have elucidated the role of a subset of CD4+ T cells, basophils, and mast cells in non-eosinophilic chronic rhinosinusitis with nasal polyps, a relatively new chronic rhinosinusitis subtype in the Asian population. Several advances have been made in understanding the role of several cytokines and peripheral cell mitochondrial function in AR using controlled allergen challenge facilities and direct nasal allergen challenges. CONCLUSION Findings from the recent literature highlight the utility of early-life predictors of AR in possibly targeting high-risk groups for prophylactic interventions. Studies also emphasize the use of controlled allergen challenge facilities and the nasal allergen challenge model as robust experimental models to study AR pathogenesis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Departments of Medicine and Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Mark W Tenn
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Departments of Medicine and Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Kim YW, Singh A, Shannon CP, Thiele J, Steacy LM, Ellis AK, Neighbour H, Gliddon DR, Hickey PLC, Larché M, Tebbutt SJ. Investigating Immune Gene Signatures in Peripheral Blood from Subjects with Allergic Rhinitis Undergoing Nasal Allergen Challenge. THE JOURNAL OF IMMUNOLOGY 2017; 199:3395-3405. [DOI: 10.4049/jimmunol.1700378] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/13/2017] [Accepted: 09/14/2017] [Indexed: 12/31/2022]
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Ellis AK, Steacy LM, Joshi A, Bhowmik S, Raut A. Efficacy of the novel nasal steroid S0597 tested in an environmental exposure unit. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2017; 117:310-7. [PMID: 27613466 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.07.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2016] [Revised: 06/28/2016] [Accepted: 07/13/2016] [Indexed: 01/10/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND S0597 is a novel glucocorticosteroid that was formulated as an intranasal spray to treat seasonal allergic rhinitis (SAR). In a previous phase 2 study, doses of 100 to 400 μg twice daily were well tolerated and more effective than placebo for improving nasal symptoms induced by grass pollen. OBJECTIVE To assess the clinical efficacy and safety of a once-daily S0597 nasal spray for treatment of SAR induced by ragweed pollen in an environmental exposure unit (EEU). METHODS A single-center, phase 2, randomized, double-blind study in 222 adults with SAR and a positive skin prick test result to short ragweed. Participants underwent ragweed pollen challenge in the EEU at the screening or priming visit and on days 1, 7, and 14 and received 50, 200, or 400 μg of S0597 or placebo in the evening for 13 days. The primary efficacy end point was change in total nasal symptom score (TNSS) from baseline to day 14. RESULTS Improvement in TNSS from baseline to day 14 was statistically significant in all S0597 groups compared with placebo. Least-squares mean differences in change from baseline between active treatment and placebo were 1.18, 1.84, and 1.17 for the 50-, 200-, and 400-μg/d S0597 groups, respectively (P < .05). The 200-μg group demonstrated statistically significant improvements in all TNSS subscales (rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, sneezing, nasal itching) compared with placebo at days 7 and 14. CONCLUSION Treatment with 50 to 400 μg of S0597 once daily was well tolerated and significantly more effective than placebo in relieving nasal symptoms of SAR associated with ragweed pollen. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: NCT01940146.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | | | | | - Atul Raut
- Sun Pharma Advanced Research Company Ltd, Mumbai, India
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Ellis AK, Frankish CW, O'Hehir RE, Armstrong K, Steacy L, Larché M, Hafner RP. Treatment with grass allergen peptides improves symptoms of grass pollen–induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2017; 140:486-496. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.11.043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2016] [Revised: 11/03/2016] [Accepted: 11/23/2016] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
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Pfaar O, Calderon MA, Andrews CP, Angjeli E, Bergmann KC, Bønløkke JH, de Blay F, Devillier P, Ellis AK, Gerth van Wijk R, Hohlfeld JM, Horak F, Jacobs RL, Jacobsen L, Jutel M, Kaul S, Larché M, Larenas-Linnemann D, Mösges R, Nolte H, Patel P, Peoples L, Rabin RL, Rather C, Salapatek AM, Sigsgaard T, Thaarup S, Yang J, Zieglmayer P, Zuberbier T, Demoly P. Allergen exposure chambers: harmonizing current concepts and projecting the needs for the future - an EAACI Position Paper. Allergy 2017; 72:1035-1042. [PMID: 28122133 DOI: 10.1111/all.13133] [Citation(s) in RCA: 76] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 01/22/2017] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Allergen exposure chambers (AECs) are clinical facilities allowing for controlled exposure of subjects to allergens in an enclosed environment. AECs have contributed towards characterizing the pathophysiology of respiratory allergic diseases and the pharmacological properties of new therapies. In addition, they are complementary to and offer some advantages over traditional multicentre field trials for evaluation of novel therapeutics. To date, AEC studies conducted have been monocentric and have followed protocols unique to each centre. Because there are technical differences among AECs, it may be necessary to define parameters to standardize the AECs so that studies may be extrapolated for driving basic immunological research and for marketing authorization purposes by regulatory authorities. METHODS For this task force initiative of the European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI), experts from academia and regulatory agencies met with chamber operators to list technical, clinical and regulatory unmet needs as well as the prerequisites for clinical validation. RESULTS The latter covered the validation process, standardization of challenges and outcomes, intra- and interchamber variability and reproducibility, in addition to comparability with field trials and specifics of paediatric trials and regulatory issues. CONCLUSION This EAACI Position Paper aims to harmonize current concepts in AECs and to project unmet needs with the intent to enhance progress towards use of these facilities in determining safety and efficacy of new therapeutics in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- O. Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery; Universitätsmedizin Mannheim; Medical Faculty Mannheim; Heidelberg University; Mannheim Germany
- Center for Rhinology and Allergology; Wiesbaden Germany
| | - M. A. Calderon
- Section of Allergy and Clinical Immunology; Imperial College London; London UK
- National Heart & Lung Institute; Royal Brompton Hospital; London UK
| | | | | | - K. C. Bergmann
- Allergy-Centre-Charité; Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - J. H. Bønløkke
- Department of Public Health; Section for Environment, Occupation and Health; Danish Ramazzini Center; Aarhus University; Aarhus Denmark
| | - F. de Blay
- ALYATEC; Strasbourg France
- Chest Disease Department; University Hospital of Strasbourg and Federation of Translational Medicine, EA3072; Strasbourg University; Strasbourg France
| | - P. Devillier
- UPRES EA 220; Airway Diseases Department; Hôpital Foch; Université Versailles Saint Quentin; University Paris Saclay; Suresnes France
| | - A. K. Ellis
- Department of Medicine; Queen's University; Kingston ON Canada
- Environmental Exposure Unit; Kingston General Hospital; Kingston ON Canada
| | - R. Gerth van Wijk
- Section of Allergology; Department of Internal Medicine; Erasmus MC; Rotterdam The Netherlands
| | - J. M. Hohlfeld
- Department of Clinical Airway Research; Fraunhofer Institute of Toxicology and Experimental Medicine (ITEM); Hannover Germany, Member of the German Center for Lung Research
| | - F. Horak
- Vienna Challenge Chamber; Vienna Austria
| | - R. L. Jacobs
- Biogenics Research Chamber LLC; San Antonio TX USA
| | - L. Jacobsen
- Allergy Learning and Consulting (ALC); Copenhagen Denmark
| | - M. Jutel
- ALL-MED Medical Research Institute; Wrocław Poland
- Wroclaw Medical University; Wrocław Poland
| | - S. Kaul
- Division of Allergology; Paul-Ehrlich-Institut; Federal Institute for Vaccines and Biomedicines; Langen Germany
| | - M. Larché
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health; Department of Medicine; St. Joseph's Hospital Healthcare; McMaster University; Hamilton ON Canada
| | - D. Larenas-Linnemann
- Department of Investigation; Hospital Médica Sur; Mexico City Mexico
- Center for Excellence in Asthma and Allergy; Mexico City Mexico
| | - R. Mösges
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); University Hospital of Cologne; University at Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | | | - P. Patel
- Inflamax Research Inc.; Mississauga ON Canada
| | | | - R. L. Rabin
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research; United States Food and Drug Administration; Silver Spring MD USA
| | - C. Rather
- Biogenics Research Chamber LLC; San Antonio TX USA
| | | | - T. Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health; Section for Environment, Occupation and Health; Danish Ramazzini Center; Aarhus University; Aarhus Denmark
| | - S. Thaarup
- Mobile Chamber Experts GmbH (MCX); Berlin Germany
| | - J. Yang
- Red Maple Trials; Ottawa ON Canada
| | | | - T. Zuberbier
- Global Allergy and Asthma European Network (GA LEN); Department of Dermatology & Allergy; Charité Universitätsmedizin Berlin; Berlin Germany
| | - P. Demoly
- Département de Pneumologie et Addictologie; Hôpital Arnaud de Villeneuve; University Hospital of Montpellier; Montpellier France
- UPMC Paris 06; UMR-S 1136; IPLESP; Equipe EPAR; Sorbonne Universités; Paris France
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Angjeli E, Gomes P, Lane KJ, Stein L, Abelson MB. Technical and clinical validation of the Allergen BioCube ® for timothy grass. IMMUNITY INFLAMMATION AND DISEASE 2017; 5:78-84. [PMID: 28250927 PMCID: PMC5322160 DOI: 10.1002/iid3.143] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/30/2016] [Revised: 11/07/2016] [Accepted: 11/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Field studies for allergic rhinitis (AR) commonly have inconsistent allergen concentrations and subject exposure patterns due to varying environmental conditions and subject behaviors. A technical and clinical validation study was conducted for the Allergen BioCube® using timothy grass to confirm uniform allergen concentration and clinically relevant subject symptom responses. METHODS Allergen concentrations were verified by laser particle counts. Subjects (N = 14) with positive skin test reactions and no symptoms at screening received four 3-h timothy grass exposures in the BioCube over consecutive days. Subjects evaluated nasal itching, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion while in the BioCube; Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) was computed. Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF), Peak Expiratory Flow Rate (PEFR), sIgE blood tests, and Nasal Inflammation Score (NIS) were assessed. A correlation analysis was conducted for mean sIgE, skin test, and TNSS. RESULTS Uniform timothy grass concentrations were achieved in the BioCube, both spatially and temporally, at all subject positions. Mean TNSS increased substantially from pre-exposure levels (0.36 ± 0.74 to 1.86 ± 2.14) to maximums of 7.07 ± 2.76 at 1.5 h and 6.71 ± 2.70 at 3 h BioCube exposure. Twelve (86%) subjects had TNSS increases ≥6 units. PNIF decreased 12-24% from baseline at 3-h BioCube exposure. NIS increased (baseline = 0) to 3.7 (maximum score = 4). A low/moderate correlation (r = 0.485) occurred between mean sIgE blood levels and mean skin tests; neither sIgE or skin tests correlated with mean TNSS. However, subjects with high skin test scores or positive blood IgE tended to also have higher TNSS. CONCLUSIONS The Allergen BioCube achieved technical and clinical validation for uniform timothy grass concentration and clinically meaningful AR sign and symptom responses. The Allergen BioCube can be used to assess the efficacy of therapies for reduction of AR signs and symptoms resulting from grass exposure.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mark B Abelson
- Ora, Inc.AndoverMassachusettsUSA; Department of OphthalmologyHarvard Medical SchoolCambridgeMassachusettsUSA
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Gomes PJ, Lane KJ, Angjeli E, Stein L, Abelson MB. Technical and clinical validation of an environmental exposure unit for ragweed. J Asthma Allergy 2016; 9:215-221. [PMID: 28008277 PMCID: PMC5167464 DOI: 10.2147/jaa.s123547] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Allergic rhinitis is a common condition, with ragweed pollen one of the more prevalent aeroallergens. Environmental exposure units such as the Allergen BioCube® are valuable models for clinical allergy studies. A study was conducted to validate the Allergen BioCube for uniform ragweed pollen concentrations and clinically relevant sign and symptom responses to ragweed exposure. Methods Ragweed pollen concentrations were measured on 3 consecutive days in the Allergen BioCube and verified by Rotorod collection and continuous laser particle count measurements. Subjects (N=10) were exposed to ragweed pollen in the BioCube for 3 hours per day for 3 consecutive days. Subjects assessed their nasal itching, sneezing, rhinorrhea, and nasal congestion during each BioCube exposure; total nasal symptom score was computed. Peak nasal inspiratory flow was also assessed during BioCube exposure. Results Uniform ragweed pollen concentrations were obtained throughout each of the 3-hour testing periods in the Allergen BioCube, both spatially and temporally, at all subject positions, with a low mean standard deviation of 10%. Pronounced increases in mean total nasal symptom scores (6.7±0.94 to 7.6±0.86, last 90 minutes of exposure) occurred for all three BioCube ragweed pollen exposure visits. Mean peak nasal inspiratory flow decreased 24% at 3 hours of BioCube exposure on Day 3. No safety issues of concern occurred in this study. Conclusion The Allergen BioCube achieved technical and clinical validation for ragweed allergen. Ragweed pollen concentration was uniform both temporally and spatially. Allergic rhinitis signs and symptoms were induced in subjects during exposure to ragweed in the BioCube at clinically meaningful levels for allergy studies.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Mark B Abelson
- Ora, Inc., Andover, MA, USA; Department of Ophthalmology, Harvard Medical School, Cambridge, MA, USA
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Mueller GA, Thompson PM, DeRose EF, O’Connell TM, London RE. A metabolomic, geographic, and seasonal analysis of the contribution of pollen-derived adenosine to allergic sensitization. Metabolomics 2016; 12:187. [PMID: 28798556 PMCID: PMC5546310 DOI: 10.1007/s11306-016-1130-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/07/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Studies on ragweed and birch pollen extracts suggested that the adenosine content is an important factor in allergic sensitization. However, exposure levels from other pollens and considerations of geographic and seasonal factors have not been evaluated. OBJECTIVE This study compared the metabolite profile of pollen species important for allergic disease, specifically measured the adenosine content, and evaluated exposure to pollen-derived adenosine. METHODS An NMR metabolomics approach was used to measure metabolite concentrations in twenty-six pollen extracts. Pollen count data was analyzed from five cities to model exposure. RESULTS A principal component analysis of the various metabolites identified by NMR showed that pollen extracts could be differentiated primarily by sugar content: glucose, fructose, sucrose, and myo-inositol. In extracts of 10 mg of pollen/ml, the adenosine was highest for grasses (45 μM) followed by trees (23 μM) and weeds (19 μM). Pollen count data showed that tree pollen was typically 5-10 times the amount of other pollens. At the daily peaks of tree, grass, and weed season the pollen-derived adenosine exposure per day is likely to only be 1.1, 0.11, and 0.12 μg, respectively. Seasonal models of pollen exposure and respiration suggest that it would be a rare event limited to tree pollen season for concentrations of pollen-derived adenosine to approach physiological levels. CONCLUSIONS Sugar content and other metabolites may be useful in classifying pollens. Unless other factors create localized exposures that are very different from these models, pollen-derived adenosine is unlikely to be a major factor in allergic sensitization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Geoffrey A. Mueller
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity and Structural Biology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
- Corresponding Author: 111 T.W. Alexander Drive MD-MR01, Research Triangle Park, NC, 27709,
| | - Peter M. Thompson
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity and Structural Biology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
| | - Eugene F. DeRose
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity and Structural Biology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
| | - Thomas M. O’Connell
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head & Neck Surgery, Indiana University School of Medicine
| | - Robert E. London
- Laboratory of Genome Integrity and Structural Biology, National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences
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Lyseng-Williamson KA. Standardized quality house dust mite sublingual tablets (Acarizax®): a guide to their use as sublingual allergy immunotherapy in Europe. DRUGS & THERAPY PERSPECTIVES 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/s40267-016-0349-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/29/2022]
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Ellis AK, Soliman M, Steacy LM, Adams DE, Hobsbawn B, Walker TJB. Clinical validation of controlled exposure to birch pollen in the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU). ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2016; 12:53. [PMID: 27777594 PMCID: PMC5069953 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-016-0156-7] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2016] [Accepted: 09/28/2016] [Indexed: 01/20/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU) in Kingston, Ontario, Canada is a controlled allergen challenge facility (CACF) that has been previously clinically validated for the use of ragweed and grass pollen in clinical studies. In this study we aim to validate the use of birch pollen to challenge allergic participants. METHODS A total of 59 volunteers were screened and 38 birch allergic participants and ten non-allergics completed the study, outside of tree pollen season. Participants had to have a minimum of 2-year history of allergic rhinoconjunctivitis during the typical tree pollen season and have a positive skin prick test to birch allergen ≥5 mm from the control. Qualified participants were exposed to birch (Betula pendula) pollen for 4 h in the EEU and recorded their symptoms of sneezing, rhinorrhea, nasal congestion, nasal itch which comprised the total nasal symptom score (TNSS), as well as itchy/watery eyes, red/burning eyes and itching of ears/palate/throat which along with the TNSS comprised the total rhinoconjunctival symptom score (TRSS) along with Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) at baseline and at 30 min intervals for the duration of exposure, then hourly for up to 12 h from the start of exposure. RESULTS Allergic participants reported a gradual rise in TNSS and TRSS, reaching a mean and standard error of the mean of 7.08 ± 0.45 and 11.58 ± 0.93 respectively by 180 min from the start of exposure. Symptoms gradually declined to near baseline values following departing from the unit, reaching 1.9 and 2.7 by 450 min. Allergic participants reported significantly higher TNSS than non-allergics starting from 30 min (p < 0.01, two-way ANOVA with Bonferroni corrections), maintaining maximum significance from 60 to 300 min (p < 0.0001) and losing significance by 420 min. TRSS and PNIF followed similar trends as those seen with TNSS. Participants were phenotyped using previously published definitions using the TNSS into Early Phase Responders (EPR, 57.8 %), protracted EPR (pEPR, 39.5 %), and Dual Phase Responders (DPR, 2.7 %). CONCLUSIONS The EEU can competently challenge birch allergic participants and achieve statistically significant changes in symptoms and nasal airflow, while such changes are not reported in non-allergic controls. Trial registration NCT02351830 clinicaltrials.gov.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K. Ellis
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON Canada
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Mena Soliman
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Lisa M. Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Daniel E. Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Barnaby Hobsbawn
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
| | - Terry J. B. Walker
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2V7 Canada
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Ahuja SK, Manoharan MS, Harper NL, Jimenez F, Hobson BD, Martinez H, Ingale P, Liu YG, Carrillo A, Lou Z, Kellog DL, Ahuja SS, Rather CG, Esch RE, Ramirez DA, Clark RA, Nadeau K, Andrews CP, Jacobs RL, He W. Preservation of epithelial cell barrier function and muted inflammation in resistance to allergic rhinoconjunctivitis from house dust mite challenge. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2016; 139:844-854. [PMID: 27658763 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2016.08.019] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2014] [Revised: 08/16/2016] [Accepted: 08/19/2016] [Indexed: 10/21/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND An emerging paradigm holds that resistance to the development of allergic diseases, including allergic rhinoconjunctivitis, relates to an intact epithelial/epidermal barrier during early childhood. Conceivably, the immunologic and genomic footprint of this resistance is preserved in nonatopic, nonallergic adults and is unmasked during exposure to an aeroallergen. OBJECTIVE The aim of this study was to obtain direct support of the epithelial/epidermal barrier model for allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. METHODS Twenty-three adults allergic to house dust mites (HDMs) (M+) and 15 nonsensitive, nonallergic (M-) participants completed 3-hour exposures to aerosolized HDM (Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus) powder on 4 consecutive days in an allergen challenge chamber. We analyzed: (1) peripheral blood leukocyte levels and immune responses; and (2) RNA sequencing-derived expression profiles of nasal cells, before and after HDM exposure. RESULTS On HDM challenge: (1) only M+ persons developed allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms; and (2) peripheral blood leukocyte levels/responses and gene expression patterns in nasal cells were largely concordant between M+ and M- participants; gross differences in these parameters were not observed at baseline (pre-exposure). Two key differences were observed. First, peripheral blood CD4+ and CD8+ T-cell activation levels initially decreased in M- participants versus increased in M+ participants. Second, in M- compared with M+ participants, genes that promoted epidermal/epithelial barrier function (eg, filament-aggregating protein [filaggrin]) versus inflammation (eg, chemokines) and innate immunity (interferon) were upregulated versus muted, respectively. CONCLUSION An imprint of resistance to HDM challenge in nonatopic, nonallergic adults was muted T-cell activation in the peripheral blood and inflammatory response in the nasal compartment, coupled with upregulation of genes that promote epidermal/epithelial cell barrier function.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sunil K Ahuja
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Microbiology and Immunology, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Biochemistry, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex.
| | - Muthu Saravanan Manoharan
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Nathan L Harper
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex; Foundation for Advancing Veterans' Health Research, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Fabio Jimenez
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex; Foundation for Advancing Veterans' Health Research, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Benjamin D Hobson
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif; Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy Research, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif
| | - Hernan Martinez
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex; Foundation for Advancing Veterans' Health Research, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Puraskar Ingale
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Ya-Guang Liu
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Andrew Carrillo
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Zheng Lou
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Dean L Kellog
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Seema S Ahuja
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | | | - Robert E Esch
- School of Natural Sciences, Lenoir-Rhyne University, Hickory, NC
| | | | - Robert A Clark
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Department of Pediatrics, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif; Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy Research, School of Medicine, Stanford University, Stanford, Calif; Division of Allergy, Immunology, and Rheumatology, Lucile Packard Children's Hospital at Stanford Hospital, Stanford, Calif
| | | | | | - Weijing He
- Veterans Administration Center for Personalized Medicine, South Texas Veterans Health Care System, San Antonio, Tex; Department of Medicine, University of Texas Health Science Center, San Antonio, Tex
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Kenney P, Bønløkke J, Hilberg O, Ravn P, Schlünssen V, Sigsgaard T. Method for a homogeneous distribution of pollens in an environmental exposure chamber. Clin Exp Allergy 2016; 46:1176-84. [PMID: 27144495 DOI: 10.1111/cea.12747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2016] [Revised: 03/16/2016] [Accepted: 04/15/2016] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A variety of different environmental exposure chambers (EECs) have been used to evaluate treatments for allergic rhinitis. OBJECTIVE To describe and test a system for a homogenous distribution of grass pollen, Phleum Pratense, in an EEC to be used for controlled pollen exposure studies in allergic participants. METHODS A chamber made of stainless steel with completely rounded corners, seating four individuals at a time, was used. Room pressure, temperature, humidity and the air change rate were kept constant throughout the study period. A rotating pipette dispensed a uniform supply of pollen into a turntable's v-shaped grooves. A stainless steel capillary tube sucked the pollens into a venturi throat at which time the pollens were mixed with a high-pressure airstream of compressed high-efficiency particulate arrestance filtered air and then transported to a spreading plate inside the EEC. To achieve uniform concentrations in the EEC, the turntable's rotating speed was continuously adjusted using information from video-coupled feedback and feed forward mechanisms. Pollen levels were detected using standard volumetric air samplers and laser particle counters. The target pollen exposure level was 1000 pollens/m(3) . Twenty-one participants were exposed to pollens in the EEC twice for 210 min. Participants evaluated their symptoms every 30 min using a total nasal symptom score (TNSS) consisting of blocked nose, runny nose, nasal itching and sneezing. RESULTS Across fifteen study days, the average pollen level was 982 pollens/m(3) (SD, 102 pollens/m(3) ). On average, participants experienced a 10% difference in overall pollen levels between their two visits to the EEC. The mean TNSSs rose throughout the exposure period, with a low at baseline of 0.43 (SD, 0.68) to a high of 4.71 (SD, 2.43) just before exiting the EEC. CONCLUSION AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE This EEC provides a reproducible, precise and homogenous distribution of pollens making it suitable for single-centre allergy clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Kenney
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,Rhinix ApS, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - J Bønløkke
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - O Hilberg
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Allergology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - P Ravn
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - V Schlünssen
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.,National Research Center for the Working Environment, Copenhagen, Denmark
| | - T Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
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Marshall GD, Grayson MH, Ellis AK, Hsieh FH, Oppenheimer J, Desai M, Lieberman JA, Greenhawt M, Montanaro A, Bielory L. The year in review: the best of 2015 in the Annals. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 116:2-8. [PMID: 26707769 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2015.10.025] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2015] [Accepted: 10/21/2015] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
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Ellis AK, Cox L. Secondary Prevention of Pollen-Induced Allergic Rhinitis-Perhaps Not a Pipe Dream? THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2016; 4:453-454. [PMID: 27157936 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2016.02.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/02/2016] [Accepted: 02/04/2016] [Indexed: 06/05/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy and Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Linda Cox
- Department of Medicine, University of Miami at Holy Cross Hospital, Ft. Lauderdale, Fla
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Suzuki T, Okamoto Y, Yonekura S, Okuma Y, Sakurai T, Sakurai D. Characteristics of laryngeal symptoms induced in patients with allergic rhinitis in an environmental challenge chamber. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2016; 116:491-6. [PMID: 27048949 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2016.03.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2015] [Revised: 03/08/2016] [Accepted: 03/09/2016] [Indexed: 01/04/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND People with allergic rhinitis often have laryngeal symptoms (LSs) in addition to nasal symptoms during the pollen-scattering season. OBJECTIVE To clarify the characteristics of the LSs induced by pollen exposure using an environmental challenge chamber. METHODS Cypress pollen exposure using an environmental challenge chamber for 25 participants with cypress pollen-induced allergic rhinitis was performed for 3 hours for 2 consecutive days in 3 study courses: namely, pollen exposure under normal nasal breathing and pollen or sham pollen exposure with nasal blockage, which eliminated any allergic reactions in the nasal mucosa. The nasal and LSs scores and the levels of serum inflammatory mediators, including eosinophil cationic protein (ECP), were monitored. Laryngeal examinations and physiologic lung tests were also conducted. RESULTS Various LSs were reported, and these LSs were significantly elevated during pollen exposure and even under sham exposure with artificial nasal blockage. The pollen exposure with artificial nasal blockage exaggerated the LSs in 32% of the participants and also increased the serum ECP levels. The serum ECP levels did not change after sham exposure. The findings of both laryngeal examinations and lung tests failed to reveal any significant changes. CONCLUSION Nasal obstruction could induce significant LSs even without pollen exposure. LSs were enhanced by pollen exposure and allergic reactions in the larynx could thus be involved in this enhancement. TRIAL REGISTRATION clinicaltrials.gov Identifier: UMIN000015667.
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Affiliation(s)
- Takeshi Suzuki
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yoshitaka Okamoto
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan.
| | - Syuji Yonekura
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Yusuke Okuma
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
| | - Toshioki Sakurai
- Division of Head and Neck Surgery, Chiba Cancer Center Hospital, Chiba, Japan
| | - Daiju Sakurai
- Department of Otolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, Chiba University, Chiba, Japan
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Controlled Allergen Challenge Facilities and Their Unique Contributions to Allergic Rhinitis Research. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2015; 15:11. [PMID: 26130471 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-015-0514-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/20/2022]
Abstract
The aim of this study is to review advances in basic and clinical allergic rhinitis (AR) research over the past decade that have been conducted using controlled allergen challenge facility (CACF) models of allergen challenge. Databases, including PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science were searched for articles employing an ambient pollen exposure in a controlled facility to study AR, published between 2004 and the present date, using the terms as follows: CACF, Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU), Vienna Challenge Chamber (VCC), Fraunhofer Institute Environmental Challenge Chamber, Atlanta Allergen Exposure Unit, Biogenics Research Chamber, Allergen BioCube, Chiba and Osaka Environmental Challenge Chamber, exposure unit, challenge chamber, or environmental exposure chamber. Articles were then selected for relevance to the goals of the present review, including important contributions toward clinical and/or basic science allergy research. CACFs offer sensitive, specific, and reproducible methodology for allergen challenge. They have been employed since the 1980s and offer distinct advantages over traditional in-season multicentre trials when evaluating new treatments for AR. They have provided clinically applicable efficacy and pharmacologic information about important allergy medications, including antihistamines, decongestants, antileukotrienes, immunotherapies, and nasal steroids. CACF models have also contributed to basic science and novel/experimental therapy research. To date, no direct studies have been conducted comparing outcomes from one CACF to another. Over the past decade, CACF models have played an essential role in investigating the pathophysiology of AR and evaluating new therapies. The future opportunities for this model continue to expand.
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Ellis AK, Soliman M. Year in review: upper respiratory diseases. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2015; 114:168-9. [PMID: 25744899 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.12.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/26/2014] [Revised: 12/11/2014] [Accepted: 12/12/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical and Molecular Science, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Mena Soliman
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical and Molecular Science, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Ellis AK, North ML. Expanding role of controlled allergen challenge facilities in allergic rhinitis research. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2015; 114:159-60. [PMID: 25744895 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.12.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2014] [Accepted: 12/31/2014] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
| | - Michelle L North
- Department of Biomedical & Molecular Sciences, Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen's University; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
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Ellis AK, Soliman M, Steacy L, Boulay MÈ, Boulet LP, Keith PK, Vliagoftis H, Waserman S, Neighbour H. The Allergic Rhinitis - Clinical Investigator Collaborative (AR-CIC): nasal allergen challenge protocol optimization for studying AR pathophysiology and evaluating novel therapies. Allergy Asthma Clin Immunol 2015; 11:16. [PMID: 25945101 PMCID: PMC4419495 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-015-0082-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2014] [Accepted: 04/08/2015] [Indexed: 01/17/2023] Open
Abstract
Background The Nasal Allergen Challenge (NAC) model allows the study of Allergic Rhinitis (AR) pathophysiology and the proof of concept of novel therapies. The Allergic Rhinitis – Clinical Investigator Collaborative (AR-CIC) aims to optimize the protocol, ensuring reliability and repeatability of symptoms to better evaluate the therapies under investigation. Methods 20 AR participants were challenged, with 4-fold increments of their respective allergens every 15 minutes, to determine the qualifying allergen concentration (QAC) at which the Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS) of ≥10/12 OR a Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) reduction of ≥50% from baseline was achieved. At the NAC visit, the QAC was used in a single challenge and TNSS and PNIF were recorded at baseline, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour, and hourly up to 12 hours. 10 additional ragweed allergic participants were qualified at TNSS of ≥8/12 AND ≥50% PNIF reduction; the Cumulative Allergen Challenge (CAC) of all incremental doses was used during the NAC visit. 4 non-allergic participants were challenged with the highest allergen concentration. Results In the QAC study, a group qualified by only meeting PNIF criteria achieved lower TNSS than those achieving either TNSS criteria or PNIIF+TNSS (p<0.01). During the NAC visit, participants in both studies reached their peak symptoms at 15minutes followed by a gradual decline, significantly different from non-allergic participants. The “PNIF only” group experienced significantly lower TNSS than the other groups during NAC visit. QAC and CAC participants did not reach the same peak TNSS during NAC that was achieved at screening. QAC participants qualifying based on TNSS or TNSS+PNIF managed to maintain PNIF scores. Conclusions Participants experienced reliable symptoms of AR in both studies, using both TNSS and PNIF reduction as part of the qualifying criteria proved better for qualifying participants at screening. Phenotyping based on pattern of symptoms experienced is possible and allows the study of AR pathophysiology and can be applied in evaluation of efficacy of a novel medication. The AR-CIC aims to continue to improve the model and employ it in phase 2 and 3 clinical trials.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Science, Queen's University, Kingston, ON Canada ; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Mena Soliman
- Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Science, Queen's University, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Lisa Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, ON Canada
| | - Marie-Ève Boulay
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Quebec, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Louis-Philippe Boulet
- Institut Universitaire de Cardiologie et de Pneumologie de Quebec, Quebec, QC Canada
| | - Paul K Keith
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | | | - Susan Waserman
- Department of Medicine, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
| | - Helen Neighbour
- Firestone Institute for Respiratory Health, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON Canada
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Soliman M, Ellis AK. Phenotyping allergic rhinitis as early- or dual-phase responses using the environmental exposure unit. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2015; 114:344-5. [PMID: 25661655 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.12.020] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/06/2014] [Revised: 12/18/2014] [Accepted: 12/22/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mena Soliman
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Science Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Division of Allergy & Immunology, Departments of Medicine and Biomedical & Molecular Science Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario, Canada; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario, Canada.
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Ellis AK, Steacy LM, Hobsbawn B, Conway CE, Walker TJB. Clinical validation of controlled grass pollen challenge in the Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU). ALLERGY, ASTHMA, AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY : OFFICIAL JOURNAL OF THE CANADIAN SOCIETY OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY 2015; 11:5. [PMID: 25653682 PMCID: PMC4316395 DOI: 10.1186/s13223-015-0071-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2014] [Accepted: 01/14/2015] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Abstract
RATIONALE The Environmental Exposure Unit (EEU), a controlled allergen exposure model of allergic rhinitis (AR), has traditionally utilized ragweed pollen. We sought to clinically validate the use of grass pollen in the EEU. METHODS Healthy volunteers with a history of AR symptoms during grass pollen season and supportive skin test responses attended the EEU for 3 hrs of rye grass pollen exposure (Lolium Perenne). Non-atopic controls were also recruited. Participants assessed individual rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms to generate Total Nasal Symptom Score (TNSS; max 12) and Total Symptom Score (TSS; max 24) and recorded Peak Nasal Inspiratory Flow (PNIF) q30min while in the EEU. Participants returned the following day for an additional 3 hrs of pollen exposure. Two separate groups allowed for the exploration of lower vs. higher pollen concentrations and subsequent effects on symptoms. RESULTS 78 participants were screened, of whom 39 were eligible and attended the 2x3h EEU visits, plus 8 non-atopic controls. Mean TSS, TNSS and PNIF values amongst participants in the higher pollen concentration group (target 3500 grains/m3) after the first 3 hr exposure were 18.9, 9.7 and 68 L/min, respectively. In comparison, mean TSS, TNSS and PNIF values in the lower pollen concentration (2500 grains/m3) group were only 13.3, 7.6, and 82 L/min, respectively. The subsequent day of pollen exposure did not appreciably alter the maximal TSS/TNSSs, but rather resulted in a more rapid onset of symptomatology, with higher mean scores at the 30 min, 60 min and 90 min timepoints. The non-atopic controls remained asymptomatic. CONCLUSIONS This study provides clinical validation of the ability to generate allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms amongst grass-allergic individuals in the EEU.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anne K Ellis
- />Division of Allergy & Immunology, Department of Medicine, Queen’s University, Kingston, ON Canada
- />Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2 V7 Canada
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- />Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2 V7 Canada
| | - Barnaby Hobsbawn
- />Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2 V7 Canada
| | - Caroline E Conway
- />Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2 V7 Canada
| | - Terry JB Walker
- />Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, 76 Stuart Street, Kingston, ON K7L 2 V7 Canada
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Nolte H, Maloney J, Nelson HS, Bernstein DI, Lu S, Li Z, Kaur A, Zieglmayer P, Zieglmayer R, Lemell P, Horak F. Onset and dose-related efficacy of house dust mite sublingual immunotherapy tablets in an environmental exposure chamber. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2015; 135:1494-501.e6. [PMID: 25636947 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2014.12.1911] [Citation(s) in RCA: 125] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2014] [Revised: 11/25/2014] [Accepted: 12/16/2014] [Indexed: 01/08/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The magnitude of effect of sublingual immunotherapy for house dust mite (HDM)-induced allergic rhinitis with or without conjunctivitis is uncertain, partly because there are few well-controlled trials with well-defined doses. OBJECTIVE We sought to determine the dose-related efficacy and onset of action of the HDM sublingual immunotherapy tablet MK-8237 (Merck/ALK-Abelló) using the Vienna Challenge Chamber. METHODS In this randomized, double-blind, single-site trial, adults with HDM-induced allergic rhinitis with or without conjunctivitis and with or without asthma (n = 124) received 12 developmental units (DU) of MK-8237, 6 DU of MK-8237, or placebo daily for 24 weeks. Subjects underwent 6-hour exposure challenges at screening and weeks 8, 16, and 24. The total nasal symptom score (TNSS) during chamber challenge at week 24 was the primary end point. The TNSS was the sum of 4 nasal symptom scores (maximum = 12). Total ocular symptom scores (TOSSs; 2 symptoms; maximum = 6) and total symptom scores (TSSs; TSS = TNSS plus TOSS; maximum = 18) were secondary end points. RESULTS Dose- and time-dependent improvements with MK-8237 versus placebo were observed. At week 24, TNSS improvement relative to placebo was 48.6% (95% CI, 35.3% to 60.2%) with 12 DU of MK-8237 and 26.6% (95% CI, 11.2% to 39.6%) with 6 DU of MK-8237. Statistically significant improvements for TNSSs were also observed at weeks 8 (12 DU of MK-8237) and 16 (6 and 12 DU of MK-8237) and for TOSSs and TSSs by both doses at week 24. MK-8237 was well tolerated. No investigator-assessed anaphylactic allergic reactions or reactions requiring epinephrine were observed. CONCLUSIONS MK-8237, 12 DU, reduced nasal and ocular symptoms and exceeded World Allergy Organization-established clinical efficacy criteria (≥20% improvement vs placebo). The onset of action for 12 DU of MK-8237 was week 8. MK-8237, 12 DU, is appropriate for further evaluation to determine the magnitude of effect in an uncontrolled allergen exposure environment.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Harold S Nelson
- Department of Medicine, Division of Allergy and Immunology, National Jewish Health, Denver, Colo
| | - David I Bernstein
- Bernstein Allergy Group and the Division of Allergy and Immunology, University of Cincinnati, Cincinnati, Ohio
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Responsiveness to timothy grass pollen in individuals without known natural exposure in an allergen challenge chamber. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2014; 114:226-32. [PMID: 25532737 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2014] [Revised: 11/04/2014] [Accepted: 11/11/2014] [Indexed: 11/23/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND The responsiveness to a nonendemic grass species is unknown and cannot be research without an allergen challenge chamber. OBJECTIVE To determine the clinical responsiveness to timothy grass pollen (TGP) in participants without known natural exposure in an allergen challenge chamber (ACC). METHODS Of the 26 screened participants, 22 met screening criteria and completed the 2 chamber exposures. The study consisted of an initial screening visit that included a blood draw for serum specific IgE (ssIGE) to Bermuda grass pollen and TGP followed by a 4½-day run-in phase and two 3-hour ACC exposure visits. This study was performed early in the first week of December 2013, when no seasonal pollens were detected in San Antonio, Texas. Symptom scores were recorded at baseline and every 30 minutes. RESULTS Of the 26 screened participants, 22 met the screening criteria and completed the 2 chamber exposures. Thirteen participants had always lived in South Texas without natural exposure, and 9 had previously lived in areas with TGP exposure. All participants tested positive to TGP and Bermuda grass pollen. Twelve and 13 of 22 had positive ssIgE test results to Timothy and Bermuda allergens, respectively, with 11 having positive results for both allergens. There were strong correlations among skin prick test size, a positive ssIgE test result, and high symptoms from TGP exposure. There was little difference in symptoms between those who had lived their entire lives in South Texas and those who had lived elsewhere. CONCLUSION In Texas, where exposure to TGP is minimal, strongly positive SPT and ssIgE test results were predictors of high symptoms to TGP exposure. Never exposed participants in South Texas reacted to TGP similar to those who had previous natural exposure, suggesting that in vivo cross-reactivity may be higher than predicted by prior in vitro data and may allow the use in clinical trials of allergens not endemic to the locale of an ACC.
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Soliman M, North ML, Steacy LM, Thiele J, Adams DE, Ellis AK. Nasal allergen challenge studies of allergic rhinitis: a guide for the practicing clinician. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2014; 113:250-6. [PMID: 25168223 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2014.06.018] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/02/2014] [Revised: 06/18/2014] [Accepted: 06/24/2014] [Indexed: 11/27/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Mena Soliman
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Michelle L North
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Lisa M Steacy
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Jenny Thiele
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Daniel E Adams
- Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario
| | - Anne K Ellis
- Department of Biomedical and Molecular Sciences, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario; Allergy Research Unit, Kingston General Hospital, Kingston, Ontario; Department of Medicine, Queen's University, Kingston, Ontario.
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Fornadley JA. Skin testing for inhalant allergy. Int Forum Allergy Rhinol 2014; 4 Suppl 2:S41-5. [DOI: 10.1002/alr.21393] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2014] [Revised: 07/03/2014] [Accepted: 07/03/2014] [Indexed: 11/09/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- John A. Fornadley
- Clinical Associate Professor of Surgery; Division of Otolaryngology Penn State University; Hershey PA
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Kenney P, Hilberg O, Pedersen H, Nielsen OB, Sigsgaard T. Nasal filters for the treatment of allergic rhinitis: a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled crossover clinical trial. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2014; 133:1477-80, 1480.e1-13. [PMID: 24589343 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2014.01.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.1] [Reference Citation Analysis] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2013] [Revised: 01/06/2014] [Accepted: 01/07/2014] [Indexed: 11/17/2022]
Affiliation(s)
- Peter Kenney
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Ole Hilberg
- Department of Respiratory Diseases and Allergology, Aarhus University Hospital, Aarhus, Denmark
| | - Henrik Pedersen
- Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark
| | | | - Torben Sigsgaard
- Department of Public Health, Section for Environment, Occupation and Health, Aarhus University, Aarhus, Denmark.
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