mRNA Technology Shows Promise in Allergy Prevention
Researchers are exploring a new approach to allergy treatment using mRNA technology, building on the success of COVID-19 vaccines. Led by Dr.George Berg, director of the division of Allergy and Immunology, the team modeled a novel vaccine utilizing the same mRNA lipid nanoparticle (LNP) delivery system as the COVID-19 vaccines.
However, instead of instructing cells to produce proteins to fight a virus, this vaccine’s mRNA is designed to produce proteins resembling specific allergens. This controlled presentation of allergen-like proteins aims to train the immune system to respond appropriately without triggering an allergic reaction. initial testing in mice proved successful; vaccinated mice demonstrated protection when subsequently exposed to the allergens thay were vaccinated against.
The results showed a significant impact on allergic responses. Vaccinated mice exhibited fewer allergy-related white blood cells,reduced production of inflammation-causing proteins,and decreased mucus in their lungs. Furthermore,their airways remained more open,resisting the narrowing often associated with asthma,and they developed specialized antibodies offering protection against allergic reactions.
This mRNA-based approach offers a potential advantage over conventional allergy shots, which require lengthy and repeated allergen administrations. The versatility of mRNA allows for tailoring to a wide range of allergens, possibly treating conditions from seasonal pollen allergies to food sensitivities and asthma. This is especially significant as effective vaccines for many severe food allergies, which can cause anaphylactic shock, are currently unavailable.
dr. Daniel Weissman highlighted the potential impact, stating that a successful vaccine could dramatically improve the quality of life for those with food allergies, allowing them to participate more freely in social activities and easing the anxieties of parents.
The study, published in the Journal of Clinical Inquiry, represents a “proof-of-concept” demonstrating mRNA vaccines’ potential beyond infectious disease prevention, extending to the modulation of immune responses in chronic conditions like allergies and even celiac disease.
Future research will focus on evaluating the vaccine’s safety in humans, determining the optimal number of allergens that can be included in a single dose, and assessing the duration of protection. Researchers are optimistic, citing the extensive testing and proven safety record of mRNA vaccines during the pandemic.
Reference: Rochman Y, Kotliar M, Klingler AM, et al. Allergen-specific mRNA-lipid nanoparticle therapy for prevention and treatment of experimental allergy in mice.J Clin Invest. 2025.doi: 10.1172/JCI194080
