Asthma Medication Shows Promise in Shielding Against Severe Allergic Reactions
Stephanie Eisenbarth and Adam Williams prepping peanuts for allergy research in their lab
Northwestern University
A recent study has revealed that a common asthma medication, zileuton, could potentially protect against anaphylaxis, a severe allergic reaction that can be life-threatening. Zileuton, already used for asthma treatment, is now being investigated as a possible remedy for acute allergic responses to food.
While food allergies are prevalent, predicting the likelihood of anaphylaxis in an individual remains a challenge. Scientists have been striving to understand why some individuals with positive food allergen tests exhibit no symptoms, whereas others face severe reactions.
Stephanie Eisenbarth from Northwestern University in Illinois explains, “Our aim is to develop methods to help individuals with symptomatic food allergies tolerate allergen exposure.”
In their research, Eisenbarth and her team conducted experiments on mice sensitized to peanut allergens, making them susceptible to anaphylaxis upon peanut exposure. The mice were administered a single oral dose of zileuton before being fed peanut extract, while a control group did not receive the drug. Subsequently, the zileuton-treated mice showed no signs of anaphylaxis, unlike the control group which exhibited clear symptoms.
Most proteins consumed are broken down during digestion, but a few can cross the gut barrier intact. In individuals with severe allergies, these intact proteins can trigger immune responses leading to anaphylaxis.
The researchers discovered that during an allergic reaction, the body releases leukotrienes, chemicals that influence the passage of intact proteins through the gut. They also identified a gene called DPEP1 that plays a role in regulating leukotriene breakdown.
Zileuton works by inhibiting 5-lipoxygenase, an enzyme necessary for leukotriene production. By reducing leukotriene levels, zileuton allows DPEP1 to control the remaining leukotrienes, preventing allergen absorption and halting anaphylaxis in sensitive mice. A single dose of zileuton resulted in a significant 95% decrease in anaphylaxis rates.
Eisenbarth states, “We could essentially make mice that typically react to food allergens unresponsive. We are currently investigating whether this drug, already approved for asthma treatment, can reduce allergen absorption in individuals with food allergies. If successful, it could offer a preventive measure against anaphylaxis.”
Jorge Emiliano Gómez Medellín from the University of Chicago believes that zileuton, in the form of a simple pill, could offer substantial protection against accidental allergen exposure. However, he notes that while zileuton may prevent allergen absorption, it may not alter long-term sensitivity to allergens.
Gómez Medellín adds, “Nevertheless, zileuton has the potential to be a valuable tool in combating food allergies.”
