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Cellular and molecular pathways through which commensal bacteria modulate sensitization to dietary antigens
Taylor Feehley1, Cathryn R Nagler1
1Committee on Immunology, Department of Pathology, The University of Chicago, 924 E. 57th St. JFK R120, Chicago, IL 60637, USA.
Current Opinion in Immunology
|December 3, 2014
Summary
The human microbiome, or commensal microbiota, plays a key role in preventing food allergies. Environmental factors like diet and antibiotics alter the microbiota, increasing allergy risk.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Microbiology
- Environmental Health
Background:
- Food allergies are a growing public health concern with increasing prevalence.
- Genetic factors alone do not explain the rise in allergic diseases, indicating gene-by-environment interactions are crucial.
- The commensal microbiota, influenced by environmental factors, significantly impacts host health and homeostasis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the cellular and molecular pathways by which commensal bacteria protect against allergic sensitization.
- To explore the interplay between environment, microbiota, and host in the context of allergy development.
- To identify potential therapeutic targets for controlling the allergy epidemic.
Main Methods:
- This is a review article, synthesizing existing research.
- It discusses cellular and molecular pathways.
- Focuses on the role of commensal bacteria in immune system development and tolerance.
Main Results:
- Alterations in microbiota composition due to factors like antibiotic use and diet are linked to increased sensitization to food antigens.
- Commensal bacteria activate specific pathways that confer protection against allergic sensitization.
- Understanding these microbial-host interactions is key to addressing allergy.
Conclusions:
- The commensal microbiota is a critical factor in preventing food allergies.
- Environmental exposures significantly shape the microbiota and influence allergy development.
- Targeting the microbiota offers a promising strategy for allergy prevention and treatment.
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