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Olivieri B, Günaydın FE, Corren J, Senna G, Durham SR. The combination of allergen immunotherapy and biologics for inhalant allergies: Exploring the synergy. Ann Allergy Asthma Immunol 2024:S1081-1206(24)00365-X. [PMID: 38897405 DOI: 10.1016/j.anai.2024.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2024] [Revised: 06/10/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
The development of monoclonal antibodies that selectively target IgE and type 2 immunity has opened new possibilities in the treatment of allergies. Although they have been used mainly as single therapies found to have efficacy in the management of asthma and other T2-mediated diseases, there is a growing interest in using these monoclonal antibodies in combination with allergen immunotherapy (AIT). AIT has transformed the treatment of allergic diseases by aiming to modify the underlying immune response to allergens rather than just providing temporary symptom relief. Despite the proven efficacy and safety of AIT, unmet needs call for further research and innovation. Combination strategies involving biologics and AIT exhibit potential in improving short-term efficacy, reducing adverse events, and increasing immunologic tolerance. Anti-IgE emerges as the most promising therapeutic strategy, not only enhancing AIT's safety and tolerability but also providing additional evidence of efficacy compared with AIT alone. Anti-interleukin-4 receptor offers a reduction in adverse effects and an improved immunologic profile when combined with AIT; however, its impact on short-term efficacy seems limited. The combination of cat dander subcutaneous immunotherapy with anti-thymic stromal lymphopoietin was synergistic with enhanced efficacy and altered immune responses that persisted for 1 year after discontinuation compared with AIT alone. Long-term studies are needed to evaluate the sustained benefits and safety profiles of combination strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bianca Olivieri
- Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology Section, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Fatma Esra Günaydın
- Department of Immunology and Allergy Diseases, Ordu University Education and Training Hospital, Ordu, Turkey
| | - Jonathan Corren
- Division of Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Department of Medicine and Department of Pediatrics, David Geffen School of Medicine at UCLA, Los Angeles, California
| | - Gianenrico Senna
- Asthma, Allergy and Clinical Immunology Section, University Hospital of Verona, Verona, Italy; Department of Medicine, University of Verona, Verona, Italy
| | - Stephen R Durham
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom; Royal Brompton Hospital, Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust, London, United Kingdom.
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Mösges R, Zeyen C, Raskopf E, Acikel C, Sahin H, Allekotte S, Cuevas M, Shamji MH, Subiza JL, Casanovas M. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial with mannan-conjugated birch pollen allergoids. Allergy 2024; 79:990-1000. [PMID: 37822222 DOI: 10.1111/all.15910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/24/2023] [Revised: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 10/13/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND There is still great need to develop new strategies to improve the efficacy of allergen immunotherapies with optimal safety standards for patients. A new promising approach is to couple allergoids to mannan. The objective of this phase IIa/IIb study was to identify the optimal dose of mannan-conjugated birch pollen allergoids for the short-course treatment of birch pollen-induced allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. METHODS For this prospective, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-finding study, 246 birch pollen-allergic adults received 0.5 mL placebo or 1000, 3000 or 10,000 mTU/mL of mannan-conjugated birch pollen allergoids at five pre-seasonal visits. Efficacy was assessed by comparing allergic rhinoconjunctivitis symptoms and use of anti-allergic medication during the peak of the birch pollen season 2020. Immunologic, tolerability and safety effects were also analysed. RESULTS The highest dose of mannan-conjugated birch pollen allergoids reduced the combined symptom and medication score during the peak birch pollen season by a median of 24.7% compared to placebo. The production of Bet v 1 specific IgG4 significantly increased in a dose-dependent manner (3.6- and 4.5-fold) in the 3000 and 10,000 mTU/mL groups. The Bet v 1 specific IgE/IgG4 ratio was also strongly reduced (up to -70%). No fatalities nor serious adverse events were reported, and no adrenaline was used. In total, four systemic reactions occurred (two grade I and two grade II). CONCLUSION All doses of mannan-conjugated birch pollen allergoids can be considered as safe. Since the application of 10,000 mTU/mL resulted in the highest efficacy, this dose qualifies for further investigation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ralph Mösges
- ClinCompetence Cologne GmbH, Cologne, Germany
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
| | - Christoph Zeyen
- Faculty of Medicine, Institute of Medical Statistics and Computational Biology, University of Cologne, Cologne, Germany
- Department of Dermatology, Venereology and Allergology, Division of Evidence-Based Medicine (dEBM), Corporate Member of Freie Universität Berlin and Humboldt-Universität zu Berlin, Charité - Universitätsmedizin Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | | | | | - Hacer Sahin
- ClinCompetence Cologne GmbH, Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Mandy Cuevas
- Carl Gustav Carus Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Faculty of Medicine (and University Hospital), Technische Universität Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Mohamed H Shamji
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology Section, Imperial College London, London, UK
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Sarfraz Z, Sarfraz A, Cherrez-Ojeda I. Investigating Experimental Treatments for Rhinitis: A State-of-the-Art Systematic Review. EAR, NOSE & THROAT JOURNAL 2024:1455613231222363. [PMID: 38205635 DOI: 10.1177/01455613231222363] [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: 01/12/2024] Open
Abstract
Background: Rhinitis is a common inflammatory condition that affects the nasal passages, significantly impacting quality of life and placing a considerable burden on healthcare systems. While traditional treatments offer limited relief, there is a growing interest in novel therapies. This systematic review aims to analyze investigational new treatments for rhinitis. Methods: A search was conducted in ClinicalTrials.gov, the World Health Organization International Clinical Trials Registry Platform, and the European Union Clinical Trials Register, as well as PubMed, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library. Both ongoing and completed clinical trials exploring innovative therapies for rhinitis, including immunotherapy, probiotics, and stem cell therapy, were included. Results: This systematic review compiled information from 74 clinical trials-51 completed and 23 ongoing-focused on new treatments for rhinitis. A significant portion of the completed studies (44) focused on various forms of immunotherapy, which showed potential for long-term effectiveness and had a high safety profile. Another seven completed trials investigated probiotics as a treatment method, yielding mixed results, though they did show promise in managing symptoms, particularly when combined with other treatments. The ongoing trials are primarily investigating immunotherapy, with a smaller number looking at probiotics and stem cell therapy. This shows a continued exploration of innovative and diverse therapies for managing rhinitis. Conclusion: This study highlights the potential of emerging rhinitis therapies to improve patient outcomes and enhance quality of life. Continued research is recommended for developing more effective, personalized, and targeted therapeutic strategies for rhinitis.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zouina Sarfraz
- Department of Medicine, Fatima Jinnah Medical University, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Azza Sarfraz
- Department of Pediatrics and Child Health, Aga Khan University, Karachi, SD, Pakistan
| | - Ivan Cherrez-Ojeda
- Department of Allergy and Pulmnology, Universidad Espíritu Santo, Samborondón, Guayas, Ecuador
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Pfaar O, Portnoy J, Nolte H, Chaker AM, Luna-Pech JA, Patterson A, Pandya A, Larenas-Linnemann D. Future Directions of Allergen Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis: Experts' Perspective. THE JOURNAL OF ALLERGY AND CLINICAL IMMUNOLOGY. IN PRACTICE 2024; 12:32-44. [PMID: 37716529 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaip.2023.08.047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/18/2023]
Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is broadly used all over the world as the only available disease-modifying treatment option. The aim of this experts' perspective is to address 7 important unmet needs for the further direction of AIT and to provide the readership with the authors' positions on these topics. An international group of experts in the field of AIT have formulated 7 important aspects for the future position of AIT, performed a current literature review, and proposed a consented position on these topics. The aspects discussed and consented by the authors include: (1) alternative routes of allergen application in AIT, (2) potential of recombinant vaccines, (3) the role of allergy diagnosis based on component-resolved diagnosis for AIT composition, (4) the impact of COVID-19 vaccination for further innovations in AIT, (5) potential of combining biologics to AIT, (6) future innovations in high-risk children/adolescents, and (7) the future regulatory position on AIT. Important unmet needs and topics for AIT have been addressed in this expert review. The authors' views and personal position on these 7 aspects have also been elaborated.
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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
| | - Jay Portnoy
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital and University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Mo
| | | | - Adam M Chaker
- TUM School of Medicine, Department of Otorhinolaryngology and Center of Allergy and Environment, Klinikum rechts der Isar, Technical University of Munich, Munich, Germany
| | - Jorge A Luna-Pech
- Departamento de Disciplinas Filosófico, Metodológico e Instrumentales, Centro Universitario de Ciencias de la Salud, Universidad de Guadalajara, Guadalajara, Mexico
| | - Amber Patterson
- Department of Pediatrics, University of Toledo College of Medicine, Toledo, Ohio; Auni Allergy, Findlay, Ohio
| | - Aarti Pandya
- Division of Allergy, Immunology, Pulmonary and Sleep Medicine, Children's Mercy Hospital and University of Missouri-Kansas City, Kansas City, Mo
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Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy is a form of therapeutic vaccination for established IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to common allergen sources such as pollens, house dust mites and the venom of stinging insects. The classical protocol, introduced in 1911, involves repeated subcutaneous injection of increasing amounts of allergen extract, followed by maintenance injections over a period of 3 years, achieving a form of allergen-specific tolerance that provides clinical benefit for years after its discontinuation. More recently, administration through the sublingual route has emerged as an effective, safe alternative. Oral immunotherapy for peanut allergy induces effective ‘desensitization’ but not long-term tolerance. Research and clinical trials over the past few decades have elucidated the mechanisms underlying immunotherapy-induced tolerance, involving a reduction of allergen-specific T helper 2 (TH2) cells, an induction of regulatory T and B cells, and production of IgG and IgA ‘blocking’ antibodies. To better harness these mechanisms, novel strategies are being explored to achieve safer, effective, more convenient regimens and more durable long-term tolerance; these include alternative routes for current immunotherapy approaches, novel adjuvants, use of recombinant allergens (including hypoallergenic variants) and combination of allergens with immune modifiers or monoclonal antibodies targeting the TH2 cell pathway. Durham and Shamji review the history and future of allergen immunotherapy for established IgE-mediated hypersensitivity to common allergens. They describe the mechanisms of immunotherapy-induced tolerance and the new strategies being explored to achieve safer, more effective, long-term tolerance.
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Penagos M, Durham SR. Allergen immunotherapy for long-term tolerance and prevention. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2022; 149:802-811. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2022.01.007] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2021] [Revised: 01/12/2022] [Accepted: 01/14/2022] [Indexed: 10/19/2022]
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Dogmas, challenges, and promises in phase III allergen immunotherapy studies. World Allergy Organ J 2021; 14:100578. [PMID: 34659627 PMCID: PMC8487954 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2021.100578] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/27/2021] [Revised: 08/02/2021] [Accepted: 08/10/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022] Open
Abstract
The concept of treatment of an allergy with the offending allergen was introduced more than a century ago. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease modifying treatment of allergic diseases caused by inhalational allergens and insect venoms. Despite this, only few AIT products have reached licensure in the US or an official marketing authorization status in European countries. Moreover, most of these AIT products are provided on an individual patient basis as named patient products (NPP) in Europe, while individualized preparations of (mixed) allergenic extract vials for subcutaneous administration (compounding) is common practice in the US. AIT products are generally considered safe and well tolerated, but the major practical clinical development challenge is to define the optimal dose and prove the efficacy and safety of these products using state-of-the art Phase II and pivotal Phase III studies. In planning Phase II-III AIT studies, a thorough understanding of the study challenges is essential (e.g. variability and non-validated status of subjective primary endpoints, limitations of pollen season definitions) and dogmas of these products (e.g., for sublingual immunotherapy (SLIT) trials double-blinding conditions cannot be maintained, resulting in stronger placebo responses in the active treatment group and inflated treatment effects in Phase III). There is future promise for more objective biomarker endpoints (e.g. basophil activation (CD63 and CD203c), subsets of regulatory dendritic, T and B cells, IL-10–producing group 2 innate lymphoid cells; alone or in combination) to overcome several of these dogmas and challenges; innovation in AIT clinical trials can only progress with integral biomarker research to complement the traditional endpoints in Phase II-III clinical development. The aim of this paper is to provide an overview of these dogmas, challenges and recommendations based on published data, to facilitate the design of Phase III studies and improve the evidence basis of safe and effective AIT products.
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Wraith DC, Krishna MT. Peptide allergen-specific immunotherapy for allergic airway diseases-State of the art. Clin Exp Allergy 2021; 51:751-769. [PMID: 33529435 DOI: 10.1111/cea.13840] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2020] [Revised: 01/24/2021] [Accepted: 01/28/2021] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only means of altering the natural immunological course of allergic diseases and achieving long-term remission. Pharmacological measures are able to suppress the immune response and/or ameliorate the symptoms but there is a risk of relapse soon after these measures are withdrawn. Current AIT approaches depend on the administration of intact allergens, often comprising crude extracts of the allergen. We propose that the challenges arising from current approaches, including the risk of serious side-effects, burdensome duration of treatment, poor compliance and high cost, are overcome by application of peptides based on CD4+ T cell epitopes rather than whole allergens. Here we describe evolving approaches, summarize clinical trials involving peptide AIT in allergic rhinitis and asthma, discuss the putative mechanisms involved in their action, address gaps in evidence and propose future directions for research and clinical development.
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Affiliation(s)
- David C Wraith
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
| | - Mamidipudi T Krishna
- Institute of Immunology and Immunotherapy, University of Birmingham, Birmingham, UK
- Department of Allergy and Immunology, University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust, Birmingham, UK
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Jiang Z, Xiao H, Liu S, Meng J. Changes in Immunologic Indicators During Allergen-Specific Immunotherapy for Allergic Rhinitis and Determinants of Variability: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials. Am J Rhinol Allergy 2021; 35:910-922. [PMID: 33631946 DOI: 10.1177/1945892421999649] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND To date, there are no generally recognized biomarkers for allergen immunotherapy (AIT) and even the changes in immunological indicators during AIT are inconsistent in different publications. OBJECTIVE This study was conducted to quantify the immunological changes that occur during AIT and identify the determinants of heterogeneity. METHODS Randomized controlled trials of AIT published in the past 10 years were searched in Medline, Embase and Cochrane CENTRAL. Data on immunological indicators were extracted, and the characteristics of the included studies were collected. Meta-analysis and meta-regression were conducted for each indicator. The study was registered on the PROSPERO website (CRD42020176127). RESULTS We reviewed 1898 studies. Forty-six studies met the inclusion criteria, and 31 studies were included in the quantitative analyses. Subset analyses by time demonstrated that serum allergen-specific IgE (sIgE) of AIT patients increased in the first 12 months, then decreased and became slightly lower than that of control patients. Allergen-specific IgG4 (sIgG4) was elevated in the AIT group during and after treatment. IgE-blocking factor (IgE-BF) was increased and IgE-facilitated allergen binding (IgE-FAB) was reduced in AIT patients. Both of them of the 2 factors were associated with clinical efficacy in the multivariate regression analysis. sIgE/sIgG4 decreased in AIT patients, while there was no change in total IgE. CONCLUSION The levels of serum sIgE and sIgG4 during AIT showed a time-dependent pattern. IgE-BF and IgE-FAB should be further investigated as biomarkers for predicting and monitoring AIT efficacy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zihan Jiang
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Hao Xiao
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Shixi Liu
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
| | - Juan Meng
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, West China Hospital, Sichuan University, Chengdu, China
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Meng Y, Wang C, Zhang L. Advances and novel developments in allergic rhinitis. Allergy 2020; 75:3069-3076. [PMID: 32901931 DOI: 10.1111/all.14586] [Citation(s) in RCA: 77] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/15/2020] [Revised: 08/27/2020] [Accepted: 08/28/2020] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
Allergic rhinitis (AR) is an upper airway disease with high prevalence in the world, and therefore needs to be thoroughly investigated and treated accordingly. Although the mechanisms underlying the pathology and treatment of AR have been widely studied, many aspects of AR are still unclear and warrant further investigations. The purpose of the present review was therefore to report recently published papers, which highlight the novel mechanisms and treatments of AR. These include role of environment, important proteins and cells, and some other factors in the pathogenesis of AR; as well as the role of immunotherapy and biologics in the treatment of AR.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yifan Meng
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Beijing TongRen Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Nasal Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Beijing China
| | - Chengshuo Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Beijing TongRen Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Nasal Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Beijing China
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Beijing TongRen Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
- Research Unit of Diagnosis and Treatment of Chronic Nasal Diseases Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences Beijing China
- Department of Allergy Beijing TongRen Hospital Capital Medical University Beijing China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology Beijing China
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Kucuksezer UC, Ozdemir C, Cevhertas L, Ogulur I, Akdis M, Akdis CA. Mechanisms of allergen-specific immunotherapy and allergen tolerance. Allergol Int 2020; 69:549-560. [PMID: 32900655 DOI: 10.1016/j.alit.2020.08.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 81] [Impact Index Per Article: 20.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/09/2020] [Accepted: 08/10/2020] [Indexed: 12/28/2022] Open
Abstract
Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the mainstay treatment for the cure of allergic disorders, with depicted efficacy and safety by several trials and meta-analysis. AIT impressively contributes to the management of allergic rhinitis, asthma and venom allergies. Food allergy is a new arena for AIT with promising results, especially via novel administration routes. Cell subsets with regulatory capacities are induced during AIT. IL-10 and transforming growth factor (TGF)-β are the main suppressor cytokines, in addition to surface molecules such as cytotoxic T-lymphocyte-associated antigen-4 (CTLA-4) and programmed cell death protein-1 (PD-1) within the micro milieu. Modified T- and B-cell responses and antibody isotypes, increased activity thresholds for eosinophils, basophils and mast cells and consequent limitation of inflammatory cascades altogether induce and maintain a state of sustained allergen-specific unresponsiveness. Established tolerance is reflected into the clinical perspectives as improvement of allergy symptoms together with reduced medication requirements and evolved disease severity. Long treatment durations, costs, reduced patient compliance and risk of severe, even life-threatening adverse reactions during treatment stand as major limiting factors for AIT. By development of purified non-allergenic, highly-immunogenic modified allergen extracts, and combinational usage of them with novel adjuvant molecules via new routes may shorten treatment durations and possibly reduce these drawbacks. AIT is the best model for custom-tailored therapy of allergic disorders. Better characterization of disease endotypes, definition of specific biomarkers for diagnosis and therapy follow-up, as well as precision medicine approaches may further contribute to success of AIT in management of allergic disorders.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Allergen immunotherapy is the only treatment modality which alters the natural course of allergic diseases by restoring immune tolerance against allergens. Deeper understanding of tolerance mechanisms will lead to the development of new vaccines, which target immune responses and promote tolerance. RECENT FINDINGS Successful allergen immunotherapy (AIT) induces allergen-specific peripheral tolerance, characterized mainly by the generation of allergen-specific Treg cells and reduction of Th2 cells. At the early phase, AIT leads to a decrease in the activity and degranulation of mast cells and basophils and a decrease in inflammatory responses of eosinophils in inflamed tissues. Treg cells show their effects by secreting inhibitory cytokines including interleukin (IL)-10, transforming growth factor-β, interfering with cellular metabolisms, suppressing antigen presenting cells and innate lymphoid cells (ILCs) and by cytolysis. AIT induces the development of regulatory B cells producing IL-10 and B cells expressing allergen-specific IgG4. Recent investigations have demonstrated that AIT is also associated with the formation of ILC2reg and DCreg cells which contribute to tolerance induction. SUMMARY Research done so far, has shown that multiple molecular and cellular factors are dysregulated in allergic diseases and modified by AIT. Studies should now focus on finding the best target and ideal biomarkers to identify ideal candidates for AIT.
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Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The purpose of this article is to provide an update on the advances made through recent clinical trials regarding the treatment of the signs and symptoms of allergic conjunctivitis and its associated conditions. RECENT FINDINGS Recent studies have demonstrated significant advancement in the various forms of immunotherapy treatments. Nutritional interventions such as probiotics have surfaced as a viable complementary treatment option. Novel delivery methods such as contact lenses have been further studied along with a new tacrolimus formulation to improve ocular levels of the drug. SUMMARY Currently, the primary advances in treatment for allergic conjunctivitis has shifted from new ophthalmic agents to immunotherapy and improvement of drug delivery. This includes the classic subcutaneous and sublingual and the novel epicutaneous and intralymphatic immunotherapy delivery systems as well as an edible rice vaccine. New targets for treatment have spurred research into new antagonist drugs such as (OC000459), a prostaglandin D2 antagonist. The Marinosolv formulation using tacrolimus shows promise and may be considered for other ophthalmic agents in the future. Other nonpharmacological treatments such as stenting and mechanical barrier gel have demonstrated their usefulness in treating ocular symptoms.
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Alvaro-Lozano M, Akdis CA, Akdis M, Alviani C, Angier E, Arasi S, Arzt-Gradwohl L, Barber D, Bazire R, Cavkaytar O, Comberiati P, Dramburg S, Durham SR, Eifan AO, Forchert L, Halken S, Kirtland M, Kucuksezer UC, Layhadi JA, Matricardi PM, Muraro A, Ozdemir C, Pajno GB, Pfaar O, Potapova E, Riggioni C, Roberts G, Rodríguez Del Río P, Shamji MH, Sturm GJ, Vazquez-Ortiz M. EAACI Allergen Immunotherapy User's Guide. Pediatr Allergy Immunol 2020; 31 Suppl 25:1-101. [PMID: 32436290 PMCID: PMC7317851 DOI: 10.1111/pai.13189] [Citation(s) in RCA: 137] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy is a cornerstone in the treatment of allergic children. The clinical efficiency relies on a well-defined immunologic mechanism promoting regulatory T cells and downplaying the immune response induced by allergens. Clinical indications have been well documented for respiratory allergy in the presence of rhinitis and/or allergic asthma, to pollens and dust mites. Patients who have had an anaphylactic reaction to hymenoptera venom are also good candidates for allergen immunotherapy. Administration of allergen is currently mostly either by subcutaneous injections or by sublingual administration. Both methods have been extensively studied and have pros and cons. Specifically in children, the choice of the method of administration according to the patient's profile is important. Although allergen immunotherapy is widely used, there is a need for improvement. More particularly, biomarkers for prediction of the success of the treatments are needed. The strength and efficiency of the immune response may also be boosted by the use of better adjuvants. Finally, novel formulations might be more efficient and might improve the patient's adherence to the treatment. This user's guide reviews current knowledge and aims to provide clinical guidance to healthcare professionals taking care of children undergoing allergen immunotherapy.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland.,Christine Kühne-Center for Allergy Research and Education, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Mubeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University of Zurich, Davos, Switzerland
| | - Cherry Alviani
- The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight, UK.,Clinical and Experimental Sciences and Human Development and Health, Faculty of Medicine, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK.,NIHR Southampton Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK
| | - Elisabeth Angier
- Primary Care and Population Sciences, University of Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | - Stefania Arasi
- Pediatric Allergology Unit, Department of Pediatric Medicine, Bambino Gesù Children's research Hospital (IRCCS), Rome, Italy
| | - Lisa Arzt-Gradwohl
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - Domingo Barber
- School of Medicine, Institute for Applied Molecular Medicine (IMMA), Universidad CEU San Pablo, Madrid, Spain.,RETIC ARADYAL RD16/0006/0015, Instituto de Salud Carlos III, Madrid, Spain
| | - Raphaëlle Bazire
- Allergy Department, Hospital Infantil Niño Jesús, ARADyAL RD16/0006/0026, Madrid, Spain
| | - Ozlem Cavkaytar
- Department of Paediatric Allergy and Immunology, Faculty of Medicine, Goztepe Training and Research Hospital, Istanbul Medeniyet University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Pasquale Comberiati
- Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergology, I.M. Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,Department of Clinical and Experimental Medicine, Section of Paediatrics, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Stephanie Dramburg
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Stephen R Durham
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section of Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.,the MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, UK
| | - Aarif O Eifan
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London and Royal Brompton Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, London, UK
| | - Leandra Forchert
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Susanne Halken
- Hans Christian Andersen Children's Hospital, Odense University Hospital, Odense, Denmark
| | - Max Kirtland
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Umut C Kucuksezer
- Aziz Sancar Institute of Experimental Medicine, Department of Immunology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | - Janice A Layhadi
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section of Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.,the MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, UK.,Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Paolo Maria Matricardi
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Antonella Muraro
- The Referral Centre for Food Allergy Diagnosis and Treatment Veneto Region, Department of Women and Child Health, University of Padua, Padua, Italy
| | - Cevdet Ozdemir
- Institute of Child Health, Department of Pediatric Basic Sciences, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey.,Faculty of Medicine, Department of Pediatrics, Division of Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, Istanbul University, Istanbul, Turkey
| | | | - Oliver Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Rhinology and Allergy, University Hospital Marburg, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Marburg, Germany
| | - Ekaterina Potapova
- Department of Pediatric Pneumology, Immunology and Intensive Care Medicine, Charité Medical University, Berlin, Germany
| | - Carmen Riggioni
- Pediatric Allergy and Clinical Immunology Service, Institut de Reserca Sant Joan de Deú, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Graham Roberts
- The David Hide Asthma and Allergy Research Centre, St Mary's Hospital, Newport, Isle of Wight, UK.,NIHR Biomedical Research Centre, University Hospital Southampton NHS Foundation Trust, Southampton, UK.,Paediatric Allergy and Respiratory Medicine (MP803), Clinical & Experimental Sciences & Human Development in Health Academic Units University of Southampton Faculty of Medicine & University Hospital Southampton, Southampton, UK
| | | | - Mohamed H Shamji
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Section of Inflammation, Repair and Development, National Heart and Lung Institute, Imperial College London, London, UK.,the MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, London, UK
| | - Gunter J Sturm
- Department of Dermatology and Venerology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
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15
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Allergen immunotherapy phase II trials: Challenges in dose finding. Allergol Select 2019; 3:1-8. [PMID: 32176223 PMCID: PMC7066681 DOI: 10.5414/alx02033e] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2018] [Accepted: 06/25/2018] [Indexed: 01/03/2023] Open
Abstract
Phase II studies on allergen immunotherapy (AIT) should define the dose with the best balance between efficacy and safety ("optimal dose"). Their key role is based on dose selection for subsequent pivotal studies (phase III, field studies). Since products for AIT differ in composition and unit definitions, phase II trials are mandatory for new products and preparations being developed according to the German Therapy Allergen Ordinance ("Therapie-Allergeneverordnung", TAV) due to current EMA guidelines since 2009. The latter permit various in-vivo models and endpoints for phase II studies, e.g., AIT-induced changes in skin test, nasal, conjunctival or bronchial provocation, or in exposure chamber or field trials. Selection and graduation of the doses, minimization of placebo effects, and sufficient numbers of patients are a challenge. Effort, required time, and costs are important variables for the initiators of phase II trials. Risks are characterized by e.g., a) too small doses without relevant differences compared to placebo, b) missing true dose-response relationships, c) strong placebo effect and consequently small "therapeutic window", d) large heterogeneity and missing distinct differences (compared to placebo), e) too small effects in field studies due to low allergen exposure, f) missing dose-related increase (in case of too high doses). In the view of the Paul-Ehrlich-Institute, the unambiguous phase II trials with TAV products performed until today were not able to confirm the marketed doses for AIT. Regardless of the utilized model, more raw and single data should illustrate the individual outcome of AIT during phase II trials, facilitating an improved and more intuitive interpretation of the data (placebo effects? scattering?). In the medium term, evidence regarding AIT efficacy will considerably increase due to phase II trials as a prerequisite for subsequent phase III field studies. This affects all manufacturers offering AIT products in Germany and Europe.
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Breiteneder H, Diamant Z, Eiwegger T, Fokkens WJ, Traidl‐Hoffmann C, Nadeau K, O’Hehir RE, O’Mahony L, Pfaar O, Torres MJ, Wang DY, Zhang L, Akdis CA. Future research trends in understanding the mechanisms underlying allergic diseases for improved patient care. Allergy 2019; 74:2293-2311. [PMID: 31056763 PMCID: PMC6973012 DOI: 10.1111/all.13851] [Citation(s) in RCA: 61] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2019] [Revised: 03/28/2019] [Accepted: 04/12/2019] [Indexed: 12/16/2022]
Abstract
The specialties of allergy and clinical immunology have entered the era of precision medicine with the stratification of diseases into distinct disease subsets, specific diagnoses, and targeted treatment options, including biologicals and small molecules. This article reviews recent developments in research and patient care and future trends in the discipline. The section on basic mechanisms of allergic diseases summarizes the current status and defines research needs in structural biology, type 2 inflammation, immune tolerance, neuroimmune mechanisms, role of the microbiome and diet, environmental factors, and respiratory viral infections. In the section on diagnostic challenges, clinical trials, precision medicine and immune monitoring of allergic diseases, asthma, allergic and nonallergic rhinitis, and new approaches to the diagnosis and treatment of drug hypersensitivity reactions are discussed in further detail. In the third section, unmet needs and future research areas for the treatment of allergic diseases are highlighted with topics on food allergy, biologics, small molecules, and novel therapeutic concepts in allergen‐specific immunotherapy for airway disease. Unknowns and future research needs are discussed at the end of each subsection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Heimo Breiteneder
- Institute of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research Medical University of Vienna Vienna Austria
| | - Zuzana Diamant
- Department of Respiratory Medicine & Allergology, Institute for Clinical Science, Skane University Hospital Lund University Lund Sweden
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, First Faculty of Medicine Charles University and Thomayer Hospital Prague Czech Republic
| | - Thomas Eiwegger
- Division of Immunology and Allergy Food Allergy and Anaphylaxis Program The Department of Pediatrics The Hospital for Sick Children Toronto Ontario Canada
- Research Institute, The Hospital for Sick Children, Translational Medicine Program Toronto Ontario Canada
- Department of Immunology The University of Toronto Toronto Ontario Canada
| | - Wytske J. Fokkens
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Amsterdam University Medical Centres, Location AMC Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Claudia Traidl‐Hoffmann
- Chair and Institute of Environmental Medicine UNIKA‐T, Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Zentrum München Augsburg Germany
- Christine Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education Davos Switzerland
| | - Kari Nadeau
- Sean N. Parker Center for Allergy & Asthma Research Stanford University Stanford California
| | - Robyn E. O’Hehir
- Department of Respiratory Medicine, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Central Clinical School Monash University Melbourne Victoria Australia
- Allergy, Asthma and Clinical Immunology Service Alfred Health Melbourne Victoria Australia
| | - Liam O’Mahony
- Departments of Medicine and Microbiology, APC Microbiome Ireland National University of Ireland Cork Ireland
| | - Oliver Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Rhinology and Allergy University Hospital Marburg, Philipps‐Universität Marburg Marburg Germany
| | - Maria J. Torres
- Allergy Unit Regional University Hospital of MalagaIBIMA‐UMA‐ARADyAL Malaga Spain
| | - De Yun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine National University of Singapore Singapore
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery and Department of Allergy Beijing Tongren Hospital Beijing China
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Christine Kühne Center for Allergy Research and Education Davos Switzerland
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), University Zurich Davos Switzerland
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17
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Pfaar O, Agache I, Blay F, Bonini S, Chaker AM, Durham SR, Gawlik R, Hellings PW, Jutel M, Kleine‐Tebbe J, Klimek L, Kopp MV, Nandy A, Rabin RL, Ree R, Renz H, Roberts G, Salapatek A, Schmidt‐Weber CB, Shamji MH, Sturm GJ, Virchow JC, Wahn U, Willers C, Zieglmayer P, Akdis CA. Perspectives in allergen immunotherapy: 2019 and beyond. Allergy 2019; 74 Suppl 108:3-25. [PMID: 31872476 DOI: 10.1111/all.14077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2019] [Accepted: 09/23/2019] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
The seventh "Future of the Allergists and Specific Immunotherapy (FASIT)" workshop held in 2019 provided a platform for global experts from academia, allergy clinics, regulatory authorities and industry to review current developments in the field of allergen immunotherapy (AIT). Key domains of the meeting included the following: (a) Biomarkers for AIT and allergic asthma; (b) visions for the future of AIT; (c) progress and data for AIT in asthma and the updates of GINA and EAACI Asthma Guidelines (separated for house dust mite SCIT, SLIT tablets and SLIT drops; patient populations) including a review of clinically relevant endpoints in AIT studies in asthma; (d) regulatory prerequisites such as the "Therapy Allergen Ordinance" in Germany; (e) optimization of trial design in AIT clinical research; (f) challenges planning and conducting phase III (field) studies and the future role of Allergen Exposure Chambers (AEC) in AIT product development from the regulatory point of view. We report a summary of panel discussions of all six domains and highlight unmet needs and possible solutions for the future.
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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
| | - Ioana Agache
- Faculty of Medicine Transylvania University Brasov Romania
| | - Frédéric Blay
- Pneumology Department New Civil Hospital Strasbourg‐Cedex France
| | - Sergio Bonini
- Institute of Translational Medicine Italian National Research Council Rome Italy
| | - Adam M. Chaker
- Department of Otolaryngology and Center of Allergy and Environment TUM School of Medicine Technical University of Munich Munich Germany
| | - Stephen R. Durham
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology National Heart and Lung Institute Imperial College London London UK
- MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma London UK
| | - Radoslaw Gawlik
- Department of Internal Medicine, Allergology and Clinical Immunology Silesian University of Medicine Katowice Poland
| | - Peter W. Hellings
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology University Hospitals of Leuven Leuven Belgium
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology Academic Medical Center University of Amsterdam Amsterdam The Netherlands
- Department of Neuroscience University of Ghent Ghent Belgium
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology Wroclaw Medical University Wroclaw Poland
- All‐Med Medical Research Institute Wroclaw Poland
| | - Jörg Kleine‐Tebbe
- Allergy & Asthma Center Westend Outpatient Clinic and Clinical Research Center Berlin Germany
| | - Ludger Klimek
- Center for Rhinology and Allergology Wiesbaden Germany
| | - Matthias V. Kopp
- Department of Pediatric Allergy and Pulmonology University of Luebeck Luebeck Germany
- Member of the Deutsches Zentrum für Lungenforschung (DZL) Airway Research Center North (ARCN) Luebeck Germany
| | - Andreas Nandy
- Research & Development Allergopharma GmbH & Co. KG Reinbek Germany
| | - Ronald L. Rabin
- Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research US Food and Drug Administration Silver Spring MD USA
| | - Ronald Ree
- Departments of Experimental Immunology and of Otorhinolaryngology Amsterdam University Medical Centers Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Harald Renz
- Department Laboratory Medicine and Pathobiochemistry Molecular Diagnostics University Giessen and Philipps‐Universität Marburg Marburg Germany
| | - Graham Roberts
- Paediatric Allergy and Respiratory Medicine University of Southampton Southampton UK
- David Hide Asthma and Allergy Centre St Mary’s Hospital Isle of Wight UK
| | | | - Carsten B. Schmidt‐Weber
- Center of Allergy and Environment (ZAUM) Technical University of Munich and Helmholtz Center Munich Munich Germany
- Member of the German Center for Lung Research (DZL) Lübeck Germany
| | - Mohamed H. Shamji
- Allergy and Clinical Immunology National Heart and Lung Institute Imperial College London London UK
- MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma London UK
| | - Gunter J. Sturm
- Department of Dermatology and Venereology Medical University of Graz Graz Austria
- Allergy Outpatient Clinic Reumannplatz Vienna Austria
| | - J. Christian Virchow
- Department Pulmonology & Interdisciplinary Intensive Care Medicine Rostock University Medical Center Rostock Germany
| | - Ulrich Wahn
- Department for Pediatric Pneumology and Immunology Charité Medical University Berlin Germany
| | | | | | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Zurich Switzerland
- Christine‐Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education (CK‐CARE) Davos Switzerland
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18
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Bousquet J, Akdis CA, Grattan C, Eigenmann PA, Hoffmann‐Sommergruber K, Agache I, Jutel M. Highlights and recent developments in airway diseases in EAACI journals (2018). Allergy 2019; 74:2329-2341. [PMID: 31573676 DOI: 10.1111/all.14068] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2019] [Revised: 09/24/2019] [Accepted: 09/27/2019] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
Abstract
The European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology (EAACI) supports three journals: Allergy, Pediatric Allergy and Immunology, and Clinical and Translational Allergy. EAACI's major goals include supporting the promotion of health, in which the prevention of allergy and asthma plays a critical role, and disseminating the knowledge of allergic disease to all stakeholders. In 2018, the remarkable progress in the identification of basic mechanisms of allergic and respiratory diseases as well as the translation of these findings into clinical practice were observed. Last year's highlights include publication of EAACI guidelines for allergen immunotherapy, many EAACI Position Papers covering important aspects for the specialty, better understanding of molecular and cellular mechanisms, identification of biomarkers for disease prediction and progress monitoring, novel prevention and intervention studies, elucidation of mechanisms of multimorbidities, introduction of new drugs to the clinics, recently completed phase three clinical studies, and publication of a large number of allergen immunotherapy studies and meta-analyses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jean Bousquet
- Fondation partenariale FMC VIA‐LR MACVIA‐France Montpellier France
- INSERM U 1168 VIMA: Ageing and Chronic Diseases Epidemiological and Public Health Approaches Villejuif France
- UMR‐S 1168 Université Versailles St‐Quentin‐en‐Yvelines Montigny le Bretonneux France
- EUFOREA Brussels Belgium
| | - Cezmi A. Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF) University of Zurich Davos Switzerland
- Christine Kühne‐Center for Allergy Research and Education Davos Switzerland
| | - Clive Grattan
- St John's Institute of Dermatology Guy's Hospital London UK
| | | | | | - Ioana Agache
- Department of Allergy and Clinical Immunology Faculty of Medicine Transylvania University Brasov Brasov Romania
| | - Marek Jutel
- Department of Clinical Immunology ALL‐MED Medical Research Institute Wroclaw Medical University Wrocław Poland
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20
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Two years of treatment with the recombinant grass pollen allergy vaccine BM32 induces a continuously increasing allergen-specific IgG 4 response. EBioMedicine 2019; 50:421-432. [PMID: 31786130 PMCID: PMC6921329 DOI: 10.1016/j.ebiom.2019.11.006] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/11/2019] [Revised: 10/30/2019] [Accepted: 11/06/2019] [Indexed: 02/04/2023] Open
Abstract
Background BM32, a grass pollen allergy vaccine containing four recombinant fusion proteins consisting of hepatitis B-derived PreS and hypoallergenic peptides from the major timothy grass pollen allergens adsorbed on aluminium hydroxide has been shown to be safe and to improve clinical symptoms of grass pollen allergy upon allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT). We have investigated the immune responses in patients from a two years double-blind, placebo-controlled AIT field trial with BM32. Methods Blood samples from patients treated with BM32 (n = 27) or placebo (Aluminium hydroxide) (n = 13) were obtained to study the effects of vaccination and natural allergen exposure on allergen-specific antibody, T cell and cytokine responses. Allergen-specific IgE, IgG, IgG1 and IgG4 levels were determined by ImmunoCAP and ELISA, respectively. Allergen-specific lymphocyte proliferation by 3H thymidine incorporation and multiple cytokine responses with a human 17-plex cytokine assay were studied in cultured peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs). Findings Two years AIT comprising two courses of 3 pre-seasonal injections of BM32 and a single booster after the first pollen season induced a continuously increasing (year 2 > year 1) allergen-specific IgG4 response without boosting allergen-specific IgE responses. Specific IgG4 responses were accompanied by low stimulation of allergen-specific PBMC responses. Increases of allergen-specific pro-inflammatory cytokine responses were absent. The rise of allergen-specific IgE induced by seasonal grass pollen exposure was partially blunted in BM32-treated patients. Interpretation AIT with BM32 is characterised by the induction of a non-inflammatory, continuously increasing allergen-specific IgG4 response (year 2 > year1) which may explain that clinical efficacy was higher in year 2 than in year 1. The good safety profile of BM32 may be explained by lack of IgE reactivity and low stimulation of allergen-specific T cell and cytokine responses. Fundings Grants F4605, F4613 and DK 1248-B13 of the Austrian Science Fund (FWF).
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Komlósi ZI, Kovács N, Sokolowska M, van de Veen W, Akdis M, Akdis CA. Highlights of Novel Vaccination Strategies in Allergen Immunotherapy. Immunol Allergy Clin North Am 2019; 40:15-24. [PMID: 31761116 DOI: 10.1016/j.iac.2019.09.010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/28/2022]
Abstract
Increasing safety while maintaining or even augmenting efficiency are the main goals of research for novel vaccine development and improvement of treatment schemes in allergen immunotherapy (AIT). To increase the efficacy of AIT, allergens have been coupled to innate immunostimulatory substances and new adjuvants have been introduced. Allergens have been modified to increase their uptake and presentation. Hypoallergenic molecules have been developed to improve the safety profile of the vaccines. Administration of recombinant IgG4 antibodies is a new, quick, passive immunization strategy with remarkable efficiency. Results of some current investigations aiming at further improvement of AIT vaccines have been summarized.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zsolt István Komlósi
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad Sqr. 4, Budapest 1089, Hungary.
| | - Nóra Kovács
- Department of Genetics, Cell- and Immunobiology, Semmelweis University, Nagyvárad Sqr. 4, Budapest 1089, Hungary; Lung Health Hospital, Munkácsy Mihály Str. 70, Törökbálint 2045, Hungary
| | - Milena Sokolowska
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Hermann-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland; Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education, Hermann-Burchard Strasse 1, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland
| | - Willem van de Veen
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Hermann-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland; Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education, Hermann-Burchard Strasse 1, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland
| | - Mübeccel Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Hermann-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland; Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education, Hermann-Burchard Strasse 1, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland
| | - Cezmi A Akdis
- Swiss Institute of Allergy and Asthma Research (SIAF), Hermann-Burchard Strasse 9, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland; Christine Kühne - Center for Allergy Research and Education, Hermann-Burchard Strasse 1, Davos Wolfgang CH7265, Switzerland
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22
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Zielen S, Kuna P, Aberer W, Lassmann S, Pfaar O, Klimek L, Wade A, Kluehr K, Raab J, Wessiepe D, Lee D, Kramer M, Gunawardena K, Higenbottam T, Heath M, Skinner M, de Kam P. Strong dose response after immunotherapy with PQ grass using conjunctival provocation testing. World Allergy Organ J 2019; 12:100075. [PMID: 31709029 PMCID: PMC6831906 DOI: 10.1016/j.waojou.2019.100075] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/18/2019] [Revised: 09/19/2019] [Accepted: 09/24/2019] [Indexed: 12/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Pollinex Quattro Grass (PQ Grass) is an effective, well-tolerated, short pre-seasonal subcutaneous immunotherapy to treat seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis (SAR) due to grass pollen. In this Phase II study, 4 cumulative doses of PQ Grass and placebo were evaluated to determine its optimal cumulative dose. Methods Patients with grass pollen-induced SAR were randomised to either a cumulative dose of PQ Grass (5100, 14400, 27600 and 35600 SU) or placebo, administered as 6 weekly subcutaneous injections over 31-41 days (EudraCT number 2017-000333-31). Standardized conjunctival provocation tests (CPT) using grass pollen allergen extract were performed at screening, baseline and post-treatment to determine the total symptom score (TSS) assessed approximately 4 weeks after dosing. Three models were pre-defined (Emax, logistic, and linear in log-dose model) to evaluate a dose response relationship. Results In total, 95.5% of the 447 randomized patients received all 6 injections. A highly statistically significant (p < 0.0001), monotonic dose response was observed for all three pre-specified models. All treatment groups showed a statistically significant decrease from baseline in TSS compared to placebo, with the largest decrease observed after 27600 SU (p < 0.0001). The full course of 6 injections was completed by 95.5% of patients. Treatment-emergent adverse events were similar across PQ Grass groups, and mostly mild and transient in nature. Conclusions PQ Grass demonstrated a strong curvilinear dose response in TSS following CPT without compromising its safety profile.
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Key Words
- ADRs, adverse drug reactions
- AE, adverse events
- AIT, allergen immunotherapy
- ANCOVA, analysis of covariance
- ARC, adverse reaction complexes
- Allergen immunotherapy
- Allergoid
- CIA-CPT, Culture – Independent Assessment of the Conjunctival Provocation Test
- CPT, conjunctival provocation test
- Cumulative dose
- Curvilinear dose response
- EAACI, European Academy of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
- EMA, European Medicine Agency
- FAS, Full Analysis Set
- FEV, forced expiratory volume
- FVC, forced vital capacity
- Grass pollen
- HEP, Histamine Equivalent Potency
- LPS, lipopolysaccharide
- MCP-Mod, Multiple Comparison Procedure and Modelling
- MCT, microcrystalline tyrosine
- MPL, Monophosphoryl Lipid A
- MedDRA, Medical Dictionary for Regulatory Activities
- PPS, Per Protocol Set
- SAEs, serious adverse events
- SAF, safety set
- SAR, seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis
- SD, standard deviation
- SU, standardized units
- TEAEs, treatment-emergent adverse events
- TLR, Toll-like receptor
- TSS, Total Symptom Score
- mFAS, Modified Full Analysis Set
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Affiliation(s)
- S. Zielen
- Department for Children and Adolescents, Division of Allergology, Pulmonology and Cystic fibrosis, Goethe University, Frankfurt, Germany
| | - P. Kuna
- Poradnia Alergologii i Chorób Płuc Lodz, Poland
| | - W. Aberer
- Department of Dermatology, Medical University of Graz, Graz, Austria
| | - S. Lassmann
- Specialist in Otolaryngology, Saalfeld, Germany
| | - O. Pfaar
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery, Section of Rhinology and Allergy, University Hospital Marburg, Philipps-Universität Marburg, Germany
| | - L. Klimek
- Centre for Rhinology and Allergology, Wiesbaden, Germany
| | - A. Wade
- Allergy Therapeutics Ltd., Worthing, UK
| | - K. Kluehr
- Allergy Therapeutics Ltd., Worthing, UK
| | - J. Raab
- Allergy Therapeutics Ltd., Worthing, UK
| | - D. Wessiepe
- Metronomia Clinical Research GmbH, Munich, Germany
| | - D. Lee
- Allergy Therapeutics Ltd., Worthing, UK
| | | | | | | | | | | | - P.J. de Kam
- Allergy Therapeutics Ltd., Worthing, UK
- Corresponding author. Allergy Therapeutics (UK) Ltd, Dominion Way Worthing, West Sussex BN14 8SA, UK
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Entwicklung der subkutanen Allergen-Immuntherapie (Teil 2): präventive Aspekte der SCIT und Innovationen. ALLERGO JOURNAL 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s15007-019-1847-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/26/2022]
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Development of subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy (part 2): preventive aspects and innovations. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2019. [DOI: 10.1007/s40629-019-0097-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
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Sharif H, Singh I, Kouser L, Mösges R, Bonny MA, Karamani A, Parkin RV, Bovy N, Kishore U, Robb A, Katotomichelakis M, Holtappels G, Derycke L, Corazza F, von Frenckell R, Wathelet N, Duchateau J, Legon T, Pirotton S, Durham SR, Bachert C, Shamji MH. Immunologic mechanisms of a short-course of Lolium perenne peptide immunotherapy: A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. J Allergy Clin Immunol 2019; 144:738-749. [PMID: 30844425 DOI: 10.1016/j.jaci.2019.02.023] [Citation(s) in RCA: 32] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/05/2018] [Revised: 02/05/2019] [Accepted: 02/11/2019] [Indexed: 01/30/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND A 3-week short-course of adjuvant-free hydrolysates of Lolium perenne peptide (LPP) immunotherapy for rhinoconjunctivitis with or without asthma over 4 physician visits is safe, well tolerated, and effective. OBJECTIVE We sought to investigate immunologic mechanisms of LPP immunotherapy in a subset of patients who participated in a phase III, multicenter, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial (clinical.govNCT02560948). METHODS Participants were randomized to receive LPP (n = 21) or placebo (n = 11) for 3 weeks over 4 visits. Grass pollen-induced basophil, T-cell, and B-cell responses were evaluated before treatment (visit [V] 2), at the end of treatment (V6), and after the pollen season (V8). RESULTS Combined symptom and rescue medication scores (CSMS) were lower during the peak pollen season (-35.1%, P = .03) and throughout the pollen season (-53.7%, P = .03) in the LPP-treated group compared with those in the placebo-treated group. Proportions of CD63+ and CD203cbrightCRTH2+ basophils were decreased following LPP treatment at V6 (10 ng/mL, P < .0001) and V8 (10 ng/mL, P < .001) compared to V2. No change in the placebo-treated group was observed. Blunting of seasonal increases in levels of grass pollen-specific IgE was observed in LPP-treated but not placebo-treated group. LPP immunotherapy, but not placebo, was associated with a reduction in proportions of IL-4+ TH2 (V6, P = .02), IL-4+ (V6, P = .003; V8, P = .004), and IL-21+ (V6, P = .003; V8, P = .002) follicular helper T cells. Induction of FoxP3+, follicular regulatory T, and IL-10+ regulatory B cells were observed at V6 (all P < .05) and V8 (all P < .05) in LPP-treated group. Induction of regulatory B cells was associated with allergen-neutralizing IgG4-blocking antibodies. CONCLUSION For the first time, we demonstrate that the immunologic mechanisms of LPP immunotherapy are underscored by immune modulation in the T- and B-cell compartments, which is necessary for its effect.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hanisah Sharif
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Iesha Singh
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Lubna Kouser
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Ralph Mösges
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE), Cologne, Germany
| | | | - Angeliki Karamani
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Rebecca V Parkin
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Abigail Robb
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | | | | | - Lara Derycke
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Francis Corazza
- Laboratory of Clinical Biology, CHU Brugmann, Brussels, Belgium
| | | | | | | | | | | | - Stephen R Durham
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom
| | - Claus Bachert
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory, Ghent University, Ghent, Belgium
| | - Mohamed H Shamji
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation, Repair & Development, Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma, Imperial College London, London, United Kingdom.
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26
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Eckl-Dorna J, Villazala-Merino S, Linhart B, Karaulov AV, Zhernov Y, Khaitov M, Niederberger-Leppin V, Valenta R. Allergen-Specific Antibodies Regulate Secondary Allergen-Specific Immune Responses. Front Immunol 2019; 9:3131. [PMID: 30705676 PMCID: PMC6344431 DOI: 10.3389/fimmu.2018.03131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 25] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/27/2018] [Accepted: 12/18/2018] [Indexed: 01/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Immunoglobulin E (IgE)-associated allergy is the most common immunologically-mediated hypersensensitivity disease. It is based on the production of IgE antibodies and T cell responses against per se innocuous antigens (i.e., allergens) and subsequent allergen-induced inflammation in genetically pre-disposed individuals. While allergen exposure in sensitized subjects mainly boosts IgE production and T cell activation, successful allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) induces the production of allergen-specific IgG antibodies and reduces T cell activity. Under both circumstances, the resulting allergen-antibody complexes play a major role in modulating secondary allergen-specific immune responses: Allergen-IgE complexes induce mast cell and basophil activation and perpetuate allergen-specific T cell responses via presentation of allergen by allergen presenting cells to T cells, a process called IgE-facilitated antigen presentation (FAP). In addition, they may induce activation of IgE memory B cells. Allergen-induced production of specific IgGs usually exerts ameliorating effects but under certain circumstances may also contribute to exacerbation. Allergen-specific IgG antibodies induced by AIT which compete with IgE for allergen binding (i.e., blocking IgG) inhibit formation of IgE-allergen complexes and reduce activation of effector cells, B cells and indirectly T cells as FAP is prevented. Experimental data provide evidence that by binding of allergen-specific IgG to epitopes different from those recognized by IgE, allergen-specific IgG may enhance IgE-mediated activation of mast cells, basophils and allergen-specific IgE+ B cells. In this review we provide an overview about the role of allergen-specific antibodies in regulating secondary allergen-specific immune responses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia Eckl-Dorna
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | | | - Birgit Linhart
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Alexander V Karaulov
- Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia
| | - Yury Zhernov
- NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | - Musa Khaitov
- NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russia
| | | | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Center for Pathophysiology, Infectiology and Immunology, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria.,Laboratory of Immunopathology, Department of Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Sechenov First Moscow State Medical University, Moscow, Russia.,NRC Institute of Immunology FMBA of Russia, Moscow, Russia
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27
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Reitsma S, Subramaniam S, Fokkens WWJ, Wang DY. Recent developments and highlights in rhinitis and allergen immunotherapy. Allergy 2018; 73:2306-2313. [PMID: 30260494 DOI: 10.1111/all.13617] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/02/2018] [Revised: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 09/14/2018] [Indexed: 02/06/2023]
Abstract
This review paper aims to provide an overview of recent developments in the field of allergic and non-allergic rhinitis, as well as allergen immunotherapy. Recent advances in phenotyping and endotyping various forms of rhinitis have brought us one step closer towards tailoring treatment more appropriately for a given patient. Updates on local allergic rhinitis are also covered. Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is an area of significant interest, with multiple original papers and recent position papers and guidelines published. Evidence related to the application of AIT in seasonal and perennial allergic rhinitis (AR), local allergic rhinitis and novel and expanded applications is discussed in the publication.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sietze Reitsma
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Amsterdam UMC; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - Soma Subramaniam
- Department of Otolaryngology; Ng Teng Fong General Hospital; Singapore Singapore
| | - Wytske W. J. Fokkens
- Department of Otorhinolaryngology; Amsterdam UMC; University of Amsterdam; Amsterdam The Netherlands
| | - De Yun Wang
- Department of Otolaryngology; National University of Singapore; Singapore Singapore
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28
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Pfaar O, Lou H, Zhang Y, Klimek L, Zhang L. Recent developments and highlights in allergen immunotherapy. Allergy 2018; 73:2274-2289. [PMID: 30372537 DOI: 10.1111/all.13652] [Citation(s) in RCA: 50] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2018] [Revised: 10/22/2018] [Accepted: 10/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Allergen immunotherapy (AIT) is the only disease-modifying treatment option for patients with IgE-mediated inhalant allergies. Though used in clinical practice for more than 100 years, most innovations in AIT efficacy and safety have been developed in the last two decades. This expert review aimed to highlight the recent progress in AIT for both application routes, the sublingual (SLIT) and subcutaneous (SCIT) forms. As such, it covers recent aspects regarding efficacy and safety in clinical trials and real-life data and outlines new concepts in consensus and position papers as well as in guidelines for AIT. Potential clinical and nonclinical biomarkers are discussed. This review also focuses on potential future perspectives in AIT, such as alternative application routes, immune-modulating adjuvants, and recombinant vaccines. In conclusion, this state of the art review provides a comprehensive overview of AIT and highlights unmet needs for the future.
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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
| | - Hongfei Lou
- Department of Otolaryngology; Head and Neck Surgery; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases; Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology; Beijing China
- Department of Allergy; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
| | - Yuan Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology; Head and Neck Surgery; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases; Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology; Beijing China
- Department of Allergy; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
| | - Ludger Klimek
- Center for Rhinology and Allergology; Wiesbaden Germany
| | - Luo Zhang
- Department of Otolaryngology; Head and Neck Surgery; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
- Beijing Key Laboratory of Nasal Diseases; Beijing Institute of Otolaryngology; Beijing China
- Department of Allergy; Beijing TongRen Hospital; Capital Medical University; Beijing China
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29
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Mösges R, Bachert C, Panzner P, Calderon MA, Haazen L, Pirotton S, Wathelet N, Durham SR, Bonny MA, Legon T, von Frenckell R, Pfaar O, Shamji MH. Short course of grass allergen peptides immunotherapy over 3 weeks reduces seasonal symptoms in allergic rhinoconjunctivitis with/without asthma: A randomized, multicenter, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial. Allergy 2018. [PMID: 29512827 PMCID: PMC6175232 DOI: 10.1111/all.13433] [Citation(s) in RCA: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/04/2022]
Abstract
Background Immunotherapy with peptide hydrolysates from Lolium perenne (LPP) is an alternative treatment for seasonal allergic rhinitis with or without asthma. The aim of this study was to assess the clinical efficacy and safety of a cumulative dose of 170 μg LPP administered subcutaneously over 3 weeks. Methods In a randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial, 554 adults with grass pollen rhinoconjunctivitis were randomized (1:2 ratio) to receive 8 subcutaneous injections of placebo or 170 μg LPP administered in increasing doses in 4 visits over 3 weeks. The primary outcome was the combined symptom and medication score (CSMS) measured over the peak pollen season. Reactivity to conjunctival provocation test (CPT) and quality of life (QOL) was assessed as secondary endpoints. Results The mean reduction in CSMS in the LPP vs placebo group was −15.5% (P = .041) during the peak period and −17.9% (P = .029) over the entire pollen season. LPP‐treated group had a reduced reactivity to CPT (P < .001) and, during the pollen season, a lower rhinoconjunctivitis QOL global score (P = .005) compared with placebo group. Mostly mild and WAO grade 1 early systemic reaction (ESR) were observed ≤30 minutes in 10.5% of LPP‐treated patients, whereas 3 patients with a medical history of asthma (<1%) experienced a serious ESR that resolved with rescue medication. Conclusion Lolium perenne pollen peptides administered over 3 weeks before the grass pollen season significantly reduced seasonal symptoms and was generally safe and well‐tolerated.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Mösges
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology; Cologne Germany
| | - C. Bachert
- Upper Airways Research Laboratory; Ghent University Hospital; Ghent Belgium
| | - P. Panzner
- Department of Immunology and Allergology; Faculty of Medicine and Faculty Hospital in Pilsen; Charles University in Prague; Pilsen Czech Republic
| | - M. A. Calderon
- Immune Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation; Repair and Development, NHLI; Imperial College; London MRC Asthma UK Centre, UK
| | | | | | | | - S. R. Durham
- Immune Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation; Repair and Development, NHLI; Imperial College; London MRC Asthma UK Centre, UK
| | | | | | | | - 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. H. Shamji
- Immune Tolerance Group; Allergy and Clinical Immunology, Inflammation; Repair and Development, NHLI; Imperial College; London MRC Asthma UK Centre, UK
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30
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Chen KW, Marusciac L, Tamas PT, Valenta R, Panaitescu C. Ragweed Pollen Allergy: Burden, Characteristics, and Management of an Imported Allergen Source in Europe. Int Arch Allergy Immunol 2018; 176:163-180. [PMID: 29788026 DOI: 10.1159/000487997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/14/2017] [Accepted: 02/22/2018] [Indexed: 12/30/2022] Open
Abstract
Ambrosia artemisiifolia, also known as common or short ragweed, is an invasive annual flowering herbaceous plant that has its origin in North America. Nowadays, ragweed can be found in many areas worldwide. Ragweed pollen is known for its high potential to cause type I allergic reactions in late summer and autumn and represents a major health problem in America and several countries in Europe. Climate change and urbanization, as well as long distance transport capacity, enhance the spread of ragweed pollen. Therefore ragweed is becoming domestic in non-invaded areas which in turn will increase the sensitization rate. So far 11 ragweed allergens have been described and, according to IgE reactivity, Amb a 1 and Amb a 11 seem to be major allergens. Sensitization rates of the other allergens vary between 10 and 50%. Most of the allergens have already been recombinantly produced, but most of them have not been characterized regarding their allergenic activity, therefore no conclusion on the clinical relevance of all the allergens can be made, which is important and necessary for an accurate diagnosis. Pharmacotherapy is the most common treatment for ragweed pollen allergy but fails to impact on the course of allergy. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIT) is the only causative and disease-modifying treatment of allergy with long-lasting effects, but currently it is based on the administration of ragweed pollen extract or Amb a 1 only. In order to improve ragweed pollen AIT, new strategies are required with higher efficacy and safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kuan-Wei Chen
- OncoGen Center, Pius Brinzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania.,Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Laura Marusciac
- OncoGen Center, Pius Brinzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania.,Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Paul Tudor Tamas
- OncoGen Center, Pius Brinzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania.,Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
| | - Rudolf Valenta
- Division of Immunopathology, Department of Pathophysiology and Allergy Research, Medical University of Vienna, Vienna, Austria
| | - Carmen Panaitescu
- OncoGen Center, Pius Brinzeu County Clinical Emergency Hospital, Timisoara, Romania.,Victor Babes University of Medicine and Pharmacy, Timisoara, Romania
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31
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Mösges R, Kasche EM, Raskopf E, Singh J, Sohlich L, Astvatsatourov A, Shah-Hosseini K, Pirotton S, Haazen L, Durham SR, Legon T, Zadoyan G, Shamji MH. A randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, dose-finding trial with Lolium perenne peptide immunotherapy. Allergy 2018; 73:896-904. [PMID: 29150857 PMCID: PMC5947135 DOI: 10.1111/all.13358] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 12/30/2022]
Abstract
Background A novel subcutaneous allergen immunotherapy formulation (gpASIT+™) containing Lolium perenne peptides (LPP) and having a short up‐dosing phase has been developed to treat grass pollen–induced seasonal allergic rhinoconjunctivitis. We investigated peptide immunotherapy containing the hydrolysate from perennial ryegrass allergens for the optimum dose in terms of clinical efficacy, immunogenicity and safety. Methods This prospective, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled, phase IIb, parallel, four‐arm, dose‐finding study randomized 198 grass pollen–allergic adults to receive placebo or cumulative doses of 70, 170 or 370 μg LPP. All patients received weekly subcutaneous injections, with the active treatment groups reaching assigned doses within 2, 3 and 4 weeks, respectively. Efficacy was assessed by comparing conjunctival provocation test (CPT) reactions at baseline, after 4 weeks and after completion. Grass pollen–specific immunoglobulins were analysed before and after treatment. Results Conjunctival provocation test (CPT) response thresholds improved from baseline to V7 by at least one concentration step in 51.2% (170 μg; P = .023), 46.3% (370 μg), and 38.6% (70 μg) of patients receiving LPP vs 25.6% of patients receiving placebo (modified per‐protocol set). Also, 39% of patients in the 170‐μg group became nonreactive to CPT vs 18% in the placebo group. Facilitated allergen‐binding assays revealed a highly significant (P < .001) dose‐dependent reduction in IgE allergen binding across all treatment groups (70 μg: 17.1%; 170 μg: 18.8%; 370 μg: 26.4%). Specific IgG4 levels increased to 1.6‐fold (70 μg), 3.1‐fold (170 μg) and 3.9‐fold (370 μg) (mPP). Conclusion Three‐week immunotherapy with 170 μg LPP reduced CPT reactivity significantly and increased protective specific antibodies.
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Affiliation(s)
- R. Mösges
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
- CRI - Clinical Research International Limited; Hamburg Germany
| | - E. M. Kasche
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
- University Hospital Schleswig-Holstein; Lübeck Germany
| | - E. Raskopf
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - J. Singh
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - L. Sohlich
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - A. Astvatsatourov
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - K. Shah-Hosseini
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | | | | | - S. R. Durham
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy & Clinical Immunology; Inflammation, Repair and Development National Heart & Lung Institute; Imperial College London; MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma; London United Kingdom
| | - T. Legon
- ASIT Biotech s.a.; Brussels Belgium
| | - G. Zadoyan
- Institute of Medical Statistics, Informatics and Epidemiology (IMSIE); Faculty of Medicine; University of Cologne; Cologne Germany
| | - M. H. Shamji
- Immunomodulation and Tolerance Group, Allergy & Clinical Immunology; Inflammation, Repair and Development National Heart & Lung Institute; Imperial College London; MRC & Asthma UK Centre in Allergic Mechanisms of Asthma; London United Kingdom
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