Induction of allergen-specific tolerance via mucosal routes

Curr Top Microbiol Immunol. 2011:352:85-105. doi: 10.1007/82_2011_132.

Abstract

Allergen-specific immunotherapy is the only curative treatment of allergies against insect venom, house dust mites, tree/grass pollens, or cat dander. Subcutaneous immunotherapy is successful to reorient the immune system and re-establish long-term tolerance. However, major drawbacks for using this route include: repeated injections, as well as the risk of anaphylaxis. In this context, alternative mucosal routes of administration are being considered together with the combined use of adjuvants/vector systems and recombinant allergens or peptide fragments. Herein, we review the current status in the use of mucosal routes (i.e., sublingual, oral, intranasal) for allergen-specific immunotherapy, as well as the latest understanding with respect to underlying mechanisms of action.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Administration, Intranasal
  • Administration, Sublingual
  • Desensitization, Immunologic / adverse effects
  • Desensitization, Immunologic / methods*
  • Humans
  • Hypersensitivity / immunology*
  • Hypersensitivity / therapy*
  • Immune Tolerance
  • Mucous Membrane / immunology*