Adipokines and their role in allergies

Area of Science:

• Immunology
• Allergy Research
• Obesity Studies

Background:

• Rising rates of allergic disorders and obesity in industrialized nations.
• Observed associations between obesity and increased risk of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• Common inflammatory pathways linking obesity, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the scientific literature on the association between obesity and allergic diseases.
• To focus on the role of adipokines in asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• To explore the immunological mechanisms connecting obesity and allergies.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of studies investigating obesity, adipokines, asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
• Analysis of the inflammatory patterns associated with obesity and allergic conditions.
• Examination of the immune system's response, particularly T-helper 2 (Th2) cell polarization.

Main Results:

• Obesity and weight gain correlate with a higher incidence of asthma and allergic rhinitis.
• Chronic inflammation from white adipose tissue promotes a Th2 immune response.
• This Th2 polarization can exacerbate existing allergies or trigger respiratory allergy development.

Conclusions:

• A common inflammatory basis links obesity and allergic respiratory diseases.
• Adipokines secreted by adipose tissue play a significant role in modulating allergic responses.
• Understanding these links is crucial for managing allergic diseases in obese individuals.