## UV222 Irradiation Shows Promise in Reducing Airborne Allergens
A recent study investigated the effectiveness of far-UVC (UV222) irradiation in reducing the concentration of common airborne allergens within a controlled experimental chamber. The research, conducted with allergen concentrations mirroring those found in clinical settings, suggests UV222 could be a valuable tool in managing aeroallergen levels.The study focused on a range of prevalent allergens, including:
* Can f 1 (domestic dog)
* Fel D 1 (domestic cat)
* Phl P 5 (Timothy Grass)
* Bet V 1 (European white birch)
* Asp f 1 (Aspergillus fumigatus – a common mold)
These allergens were introduced either from original dust sources or in purified form, and particle size distribution was analyzed to ensure allergen enrichment wasn’t skewed towards specific fractions.
Researchers exposed the chamber to UV222 irradiation, carefully maintaining levels below established exposure thresholds for skin and eyes as defined by the American Conference of Industrial Hygienists (ACGIH). Ozone levels, a potential byproduct of UV irradiation, were also closely monitored.
The results indicated that over 99% of the aeroallergens present were 10 µm or larger. UV222 irradiation led to a considerable reduction in the average allergen load, ranging from 20% to 25%, with the most significant decrease occurring within the first 30 minutes of treatment.
Allergens originating from original dust sources were reduced more rapidly than purified allergens. Notably, the birch allergen (Bet V 1) exhibited the most substantial reduction. Conversely, the cat allergen (Fel D 1) proved the most resistant to UV222 treatment, even though its vulnerability increased when stabilized with components like Tween-20.
while ozone was generated during the experiment, it did not significantly contribute to allergen reduction. The observed allergen reductions were comparable to those reported in longer-term allergy studies, though the researchers emphasize that direct clinical validation was not part of this study.
The authors hypothesize that UV222 likely disrupts the protein structure of allergens, perhaps reducing their detection in immunodosages and diminishing the recognition of IgE-epitopes by the body. Further investigation is needed to confirm this mechanism.
This study represents the first to utilize common aeroallergens in a controlled habitat at clinically relevant concentrations. The developed methodology is expected to improve understanding of allergen behavior in the air and inform the development of effective allergy control and prevention strategies.
The study concludes that UV222 exposure *may* reduce the immunorecognition of allergens in airborne particles, supporting its potential as part of a complete aeroallergen control strategy. However, further research is crucial to determine if these reductions translate into clinically meaningful symptom relief for individuals with allergies.
