Chimeric Allergen Receptor Treg Cells Suppress Allergic Asthma in Mice
Researchers at Lausanne University Hospital have developed 'CAlleR Tregs,' a type of genetically engineered cell therapy that suppresses allergic asthma responses in mice. This proof-of-concept study suggests a potential future treatment for severe human allergies by modulating the immune system's reaction to specific allergens.
Why it matters
This breakthrough offers a potential long-term solution for millions suffering from allergic asthma by targeting the root immune response rather than just symptoms.
Genetically engineered CAR T cells expressing artificial receptor proteins are increasingly used in the clinic to boost the immune system’s response against leukemias and other cancers. Researchers at Lausanne University Hospital and University of Lausanne, and at Center for Human Immunology Lausanne, have now adapted this approach to suppress the immune system’s response to a common birch pollen allergen. The investigators developed regulatory T cells (Tregs) armed with chimeric allergen receptors (CAlleR Tregs), which in tests reduced or preventing asthma symptoms in mice sensitized to the allergen. The team suggests that their technique could eventually be used to treat a wide variety of allergies in humans.
The article reports on scientific research findings in a factual, objective manner.
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