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Basophil Activation Test for Allergy Diagnosis
Published on: May 31, 2021
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Systematic characterization of basophil anergy.
Kia Joo Puan1, Anand Kumar Andiappan1, Bernett Lee1
1Singapore Immunology Network (SIgN), A*STAR (Agency for Science, Technology and Research), Singapore, Singapore.
Allergy
|June 9, 2016
Summary
Basophil anergy, a state where basophils do not respond to allergens, was observed in 10% of individuals. This state may prevent reactions to minor allergens and has potential diagnostic and therapeutic implications for allergic diseases.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Basophil unresponsiveness to allergens, linked to Fc epsilon receptor desensitization, is observed in some individuals.
- The cause, function, and impact of this basophil inactivation on allergic reactions remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the phenomenon of basophil inactivation in a human cohort.
- To correlate basophil functional state with clinical and molecular parameters in allergic disease.
Main Methods:
- A cross-sectional study involving 476 individuals in Singapore.
- Comprehensive analysis of blood samples to link basophil function to clinical status and plasma components.
- Focus on house dust mite (HDM) as the dominant allergen.
Main Results:
- Approximately 10% of the cohort exhibited 'basophil anergy' (inactivated basophils).
- Basophil anergy correlated with downregulated Syk signaling and a reduced incidence of allergic rhinitis.
- This state appears transitional between allergen responder and non-responder states.
Conclusions:
- Basophil anergy may act as a protective mechanism against reactions to minor allergens.
- This finding suggests potential applications for basophil anergy in diagnosing and treating allergic diseases.
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