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Methods to Evaluate Cytotoxicity and Immunosuppression of Combustible Tobacco Product Preparations
Published on: January 10, 2015
Tobacco smoke "sensitivity"--is there an immunologic basis?
The Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology
|February 1, 1984
Summary
This study investigated if immune responses to tobacco smoke cause hypersensitivity. Researchers found no direct link between immune reactions to tobacco antigens and self-reported smoke sensitivity.
Area of Science:
- Immunology
- Environmental Health
- Allergy Research
Background:
- Subjective hypersensitivity to tobacco smoke is commonly reported.
- The underlying immunological mechanisms for this sensitivity remain unclear.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate a potential immunologic basis for reported tobacco smoke hypersensitivity in humans.
- To determine if specific antibodies correlate with self-reported sensitivity or smoking history.
Main Methods:
- Ninety-three individuals with varying smoking histories and claimed sensitivities were recruited.
- Skin prick testing with tobacco smoke and leaf extracts was performed.
- Sera were analyzed for reaginic (RAST) and precipitating antibodies to tobacco antigens.
Main Results:
- A significant number showed positive skin test and RAST responses to tobacco leaf antigens, but few responded to smoke antigens.
- Immune responses to tobacco antigens did not correlate with reported sensitivity or smoking habits.
- Responses correlated with atopic status, suggesting a link to general allergic predisposition rather than specific smoke sensitivity.
Conclusions:
- Subjective hypersensitivity to tobacco smoke is unlikely to be caused by specific hypersensitivity to tobacco leaf or smoke antigens.
- Atopy appears to be a more significant factor in immune responses to tobacco antigens than reported smoke sensitivity.
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