Samhitha T

Transgenerational occurrence of allergies and modification in genes

Started May 9, 2022

Abstract or project description

Both environmental and genetic factors play a role in allergies. Allergies are influenced by genes and how they control immune cell function. Several studies have examined the occurrence of allergic disease in children and its association with other risk factors, including allergic disease in parents. Specific toxins like CO2 and other health conditions can be related to the diagnosis of allergic rhinitis. The response to food allergies was observed in many studies to conclude that heritability from parents to offspring is one of the leading risk factors for allergic diseases. Several studies have found a significant increase in the prevalence of allergic rhinitis in males than in females. Avoidance of a particular food was associated with an increased risk of developing an allergy to that food. At the molecular level, T cells are found to affect allergy outcomes through their part of the immune response.  Food proteins such as milk, egg, and peanut - common food allergens -  may cause an immune response in allergic individuals. Different therapies include Epicutaneous Immunotherapy (EPIT) and specific infant milk protein formulas. If this formula is taken from infancy, the allergic responses can be prevented/reduced.  As with seasonal allergies, prevention can be mediated by avoiding different pollution environments that may cause additional irritation, temperature control in a given atmosphere/humidity, and therapies of Vitamin C for immunity. With many other seasonal allergy triggers, it is ubiquitous among populations and dependent on the area and season.