Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 17, 2026
06:08
Immunofluorescent Labeling in Nasal Mucosa Tissue Sections of Allergic Rhinitis Rats via Multicolor Immunoassay
Published on: September 22, 2023
Serum lactoferrin level as a serologic biomarker for allergic rhinitis
1Department of Allergy and Rheumatology, Kyung Hee University College of Medicine, Seoul, Korea.
Summary
Researchers identified serum lactoferrin as a potential new biomarker for allergic rhinitis (AR). Lower lactoferrin levels indicate AR, and combining it with IgE levels improves detection accuracy for this common condition.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Proteomics
- Allergy Diagnostics
Background:
- Allergic rhinitis (AR) is a prevalent condition and a risk factor for allergic asthma.
- Early detection of AR is crucial for improving clinical outcomes and reducing the socio-economic burden.
- Novel serologic markers are needed for the early identification of AR.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify a novel serologic marker for the early detection of allergic rhinitis (AR) using a proteomic approach.
- To evaluate the clinical relevance of identified proteins as potential biomarkers for AR.
- To determine the diagnostic accuracy of candidate proteins for predicting AR.
Main Methods:
- Comparative proteomics was employed on nasal lavage fluids (NLFs) before and after a nasal provocation test (NPT) with Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus (Dpt).
- Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) was used to validate protein expression in NLFs and sera from AR patients, controls, and healthy individuals.
- Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were utilized to assess the sensitivity and specificity of candidate proteins for AR prediction.
Main Results:
- Proteomic analysis revealed up-regulated lactoferrin expression post-NPT.
- Serum lactoferrin levels were significantly lower in the AR group compared to control groups (P<0.05).
- Serum lactoferrin <307 ng/mL showed 81.4% sensitivity and 58% specificity for AR. Combining with Dpt-specific IgE improved accuracy to 76.7% sensitivity and 79.2% specificity.
Conclusions:
- Serum lactoferrin levels are associated with the phenotype of Dermatophagoides pteronyssinus-sensitive allergic rhinitis.
- Serum lactoferrin, particularly when combined with serum Dpt-specific IgE levels, shows potential as a serologic marker for the early detection of AR.
- This finding could lead to improved diagnostic strategies for allergic rhinitis.
