From the genesis to the present: The evolution of sublingual immunotherapy for cedar pollinosis

In 2004, we started the initial attempt to evaluate the efficacy of SLIT for Japanese cedar pollinosis (JCP) using Japanese cedar (JC) pollen extract solution through a multicenter, placebo-controlled, double-blind comparative study. Based on its success in demonstrating the substantial efficacy of SLIT, we next conducted a larger-scale study by administering JC pollen to all JCP patients recruited. It was because of aiming to ascertain the effectiveness and safety of SLIT and its underlying mechanisms by comparing high- and non-responder patients. Despite limitations posed by liquid medication, significant effectiveness and safety demonstrated by the 2-year treatment served as the foundation for launching the first SLIT medicine for JCP, in 2014. Furthermore, in addition to the clearer Th1/Th2-imbalanced property in the high-responders, the possible involvement of bitter taste receptors in CD4⁺ T cells, apoptosis pathways in CD4⁺ T cells and basophils, and inducing a mast cell degranulation inhibitory molecule in the effect of SLIT was demonstrated. To solve the limitations posed by liquid medication, clinical trials evaluating JC pollen sublingual tablets started in 2014. Due to the minimal side effects, ease of administration, and convenient storage, the sublingual tablet medicine was launched in 2018. Giving the ongoing rise in demand for SLIT and considering that more than 1% of JCP patients are currently undergoing SLIT, the practical use of this treatment for multiple allergens is becoming increasingly important.