Biologics in food allergy: up-to-date

Expert Opin Biol Ther. 2021 Sep;21(9):1227-1235. doi: 10.1080/14712598.2021.1904888. Epub 2021 Mar 30.

Abstract

Introduction: In recent years, the advent of immunotherapy has remarkably improved the management of IgE-mediated food allergy. However, some barriers still exist. Therefore, the effort of researchers aims to investigate new perspectives in the field of non-allergen specific therapy, also based on the current knowledge of the pathogenesis of this disease.Areas covered: This review aims to focus on the role of biologics as a treatment option in patients with IgE-mediated food allergy. These agents are characterized by their ability to inactivate the Th2 pro-inflammatory pathways. Biologics can be used both alone and in association with immunotherapy. Monoclonal antibodies targeting IgE, the IL-4/IL-13 axis, IL-5, and alarmins have been proposed and investigated for treating food allergy.Expert opinion: The clinical efficacy and safety of biologics have been demonstrated in several preclinical studies and randomized controlled trials. Future studies are still required to address current unmet needs, including the identification of the optimal dose to be used by ensuring the effectiveness of therapy.

Keywords: Alarmins; dupilumab; etokimab; ige-mediated food allergy; immunotherapy; mepolizumab; omalizumab; pathogenesis; reslizumab.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Biological Products*
  • Food Hypersensitivity* / drug therapy
  • Humans
  • Immunotherapy
  • Omalizumab

Substances

  • Antibodies, Monoclonal
  • Biological Products
  • Omalizumab