Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jun 12, 2025
Noninvasive Sampling of Mucosal Lining Fluid for the Quantification of In Vivo Upper Airway Immune-mediator Levels
Published on: August 7, 2017
Eosinophil-derived neurotoxin levels can predict allergic disease development and atopic march in children
Zak Callaway1,2, Chang-Keun Kim2
1Science Division, Mahidol University International College, Mahidol University, Nakhon Pathom, Thailand.
Insights
Eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) is a promising biomarker for predicting allergic diseases in children. Early measurement of EDN can help identify at-risk individuals and potentially halt the progression of atopic march.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Allergology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Atopic march describes the progression of allergic diseases in children, starting with atopic dermatitis and potentially leading to asthma and rhinitis.
- This progression involves shared genetic, environmental, and immunological factors, including T-helper type 2 responses, IgE production, and eosinophil activation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To evaluate eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) as a reliable biomarker for atopic march-associated conditions.
- To determine the predictive value of EDN levels for the development of allergic diseases.
Main Methods:
- The study focused on analyzing eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) levels in children with atopic manifestations.
- EDN levels were assessed in relation to the progression of atopic dermatitis, allergic asthma, and allergic rhinitis.
Main Results:
- Elevated EDN levels were observed in a subset of patients with atopic march-associated conditions.
- Increased EDN levels demonstrated predictive value for the development of allergic diseases, indicating its role in prognosis and diagnosis.
Conclusions:
- Eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN) is a promising biomarker for the prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of allergic diseases within the atopic march.
- Early detection and management of elevated EDN levels may lead to better patient outcomes and potentially halt the progression of allergic diseases.
Abstract:
In some children, atopic manifestations begin with atopic dermatitis and progress to allergic asthma and allergic rhinitis; of them, a small subset experience food allergies as well. This progression shares genetic and environmental predisposing factors and immunological features, such as allergen-specific T-helper type 2 responses, that manifest as specific immunoglobulin E production and eosinophil activation. Eosinophil-derived neurotoxin (EDN), which is released by eosinophils during this activation, shows promise as a reliable and accurate biomarker. EDN levels are elevated in a subset of patients with atopic march-associated conditions. Elevated EDN levels predict allergic disease development, demonstrating that EDN is a good biomarker for the prognosis, diagnosis, treatment, and monitoring of allergic diseases comprising atopic march. The early measurement of EDN would help identify those who are more likely to develop allergic diseases later in life. Thus, the early detection and treatment of elevated EDN could lead to better outcomes, including halting atopic march.
Related Concept Videos
01:20Asthma: Pathogenesis and Management
Asthma is classified as allergic and non-allergic. Allergens such as dust mites, pollen, and pet dander trigger allergic asthma, while factors like cold air, intense emotions, or exercise can induce non-allergic asthma.
01:26Asthma-II: Pathophysiology and Classification
Additionally, environmental and genetic factors play crucial roles in determining an individual's susceptibility to asthma and the severity of their condition.
Critical processes in asthma pathophysiology include:
02:06Allergic Reactions
01:25Antiasthma Drugs: Mast Cell Stabilizers and Anti-IgE Drugs
Mast cell stabilizers, such as cromolyn (also known as sodium cromoglycate) and nedocromil (Tilade), are effective drugs in asthma management. These stabilizers hinder histamine release by skillfully obstructing the activation of mast cells and other cellular entities. Notably, they navigate this task without...