Heredity and predisposition to allergies

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Heredity and predisposition to allergies

I. Allergy: review and basic concepts

An allergy is an abnormal, excessive and often harmful immune reaction to usually harmless substances called allergens. The immune system, designed to protect the body from harmful pathogens, mistakenly identifies these allergens as a threat and triggers a cascade of reactions leading to various symptoms. These symptoms can vary from mild discomfort, such as itching and runny nose, to severe, potentially life -threatening states, such as anaphylactic shock.

A. The immune system and its role in allergies

The immune system is a complex network of cells, tissues and organs working together to protect the body from infections and diseases. A key role in allergic reactions is played by certain components of the immune system, including:

  1. B-lymphocytes: These cells are responsible for the production of antibodies, specialized proteins, which recognize and associate with certain antigens (in this case, allergens). With allergies, B-lymphocytes produce antibodies of the IgE type (immunoglobulin E) in response to the effect of allergen.

  2. IgE: IgE antibodies are associated with fat cells and basophils, which are immune cells containing granules filled with histamine and other inflammation mediators.

  3. Oblast cells and basophils: When the allergen is associated with IgE, which is already associated with fat cells and basophils, this causes the degeneration of these cells, that is, the release of their contents (histamine, leukotrienes, prostaglandins and other mediators). These mediators are responsible for most allergies symptoms.

  4. T-lymphocytes (T cells): T-cells play an important role in the regulation of the immune response. Certain types of T cells, such as Th2 cells, contribute to the production of IgE and enhance allergic reactions. Other types of T cells, such as Treg cells, suppress the immune response and can help prevent allergies.

B. The main types of allergic reactions

Allergic reactions are classified depending on the mechanism of their development and the time necessary for the manifestation of symptoms. Classification Gell-Kumbs describes four types of hypersensitivity, but in the context of allergies the most important reactions of the I type are:

  1. Type I reactions (immediate hypersensitivity): This is the most common type of allergic reaction. They are mediated by IGE and occur within a few minutes after exposure to the allergen. Examples include allergic rhinitis (hay fever), allergic asthma, food allergies and anaphylaxia.

C. common allergens

Allergens are substances that cause allergic reactions. There are a huge number of potential allergens, but some of them are more common than others:

  1. Plant pollen: The pollen of trees, herbs and weeds is a common allergen, especially in seasonal periods.

  2. Home dust ticks: Microscopic organisms that live in domestic dust secrete waste that are strong allergens.

  3. Mold: Spores of mold in the air can cause allergic reactions.

  4. Pets: Dandruff, saliva and urine of pets (cats, dogs, rodents) contain allergens.

  5. Food products: Some foods, such as milk, eggs, peanuts, forest nuts, soy, wheat, fish and mollusks, are common food allergens.

  6. Insect poison: Books or bites of bees, OS, hornets and other insects can cause allergic reactions.

  7. Medicines: Some drugs, such as penicillin, can cause allergic reactions.

  8. Latex: Natural rubber contained in latex products (for example, gloves, condoms) can cause allergic reactions.

II. Genetics and heredity of allergies

Heredity plays a significant role in the development of allergies. Children who have one or both parents with allergies have a higher risk of allergies than children who have no allergic relatives. However, heredity does not definitely determine the development of allergies; Rather, it creates a predisposition to the development of allergies when exposed to certain environmental factors.

A. Genetic factors that determine the predisposition to allergies

  1. Genes participating in the regulation of the immune system: Many genes involved in the regulation of the immune system are associated with an increased risk of allergies. These include genes encoding cytokines (signal molecules regulating the immune response), cytokine receptors, IgE antibodies and other components of the immune system.

  2. Genes affecting the function of the barrier of the skin and mucous membranes: The skin and mucous membranes serve as physical barriers that prevent the penetration of allergens into the body. Genes affecting the integrity and function of these barriers can affect the risk of allergies. For example, mutations in the philaggrin, protein, important for maintaining the barrier function of the skin, are associated with an increased risk of developing atopic dermatitis (eczema) and other allergic diseases.

  3. Genes that determine the reaction to allergens: Some genes affect how the immune system responds to specific allergens. For example, genes encoding receptors on fat cells and basophiles can affect the strength of the degeneration of these cells in response to the effect of allergen.

  4. ASTMA genes: Astma is often an allergic disease, and many genes associated with asthma are also associated with an increased risk of allergies. These genes are involved in the regulation of inflammation of the respiratory tract, hyperreactivity of the respiratory tract and other aspects of asthma.

B. The role of HLA (Human Leukocyte Antigen) in allergies

The HLA complex (the main complex of human histocompatibility) plays an important role in the immune response. HLA genes encode proteins that are presented to the antigens of T-cells, launching an immune response. Various alleles (options) HLA genes are associated with an increased or reduced risk of developing various allergic diseases. For example, some HLA alleles are associated with an increased risk of developing allergic rhinitis, atopic dermatitis and food allergies.

C. Epigenetic factors and allergies

Epigenetic changes are changes in genes expression that are not associated with changes in the DNA sequence. These changes can be caused by environmental factors and can be transmitted from generation to generation. Epigenetic factors play an important role in the development of allergies.

  1. DNA methylation: DNA methylation is the process of adding a methyl group to DNA, which can suppress the expression of genes. Changes in the methylation of DNA of genes involved in the regulation of the immune system can affect the risk of allergies.

  2. Modifications of histones: Histons are proteins around which DNA is wrapped. Histonian modifications (for example, acetylation, methylation) can affect the availability of DNA for transcription and, therefore, to the expression of genes. Changes in the modifications of histones of genes involved in the regulation of the immune system can affect the risk of allergies.

  3. Microrm (Markn): Mirnka is small RNA molecules that regulate the expression of genes, contacting MRNA (Messenger RNA). Changes in the expression of Mirk can affect the risk of allergies.

III. Environmental factors and allergies

Although a genetic predisposition plays an important role, environmental factors are also crucial in the development of allergies. The influence of certain environmental factors at an early age can increase or decrease the risk of allergies.

A. Hygienic hypothesis

Hygienic hypothesis suggests that a decrease in the effects of infections in early childhood can lead to a violation of the development of the immune system and increased risk of allergies. In developed countries where sanitary conditions have been improved and the use of antibiotics is common, an increase in allergic diseases is observed. This is due to the fact that the immune system in early childhood needs to stimulate various microorganisms for proper development. The lack of this stimulation can lead to a displacement of an immune response towards allergic reactions.

  1. The impact of microorganisms at an early age: Contact with microorganisms, such as bacteria and viruses, at an early age can stimulate the development of TREG cells that suppress the immune response and help prevent allergies.

  2. The role of intestinal microbiots: The intestinal microbiota, the totality of microorganisms that live in the intestine, plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system. The variety and composition of the intestinal microbiots can affect the risk of allergies. Dysbacteriosis (impaired intestinal microbiotic balance) can lead to increased intestinal permeability, which allows allergens to penetrate the bloodstream and stimulate the immune response.

  3. The influence of antibiotics: The use of antibiotics in early childhood can violate the composition of the intestinal microbiota and increase the risk of allergies.

B. The effect of allergens at an early age

The early exposure of certain allergens can increase or reduce the risk of allergies.

  1. Early introduction of allergenic products: Some studies show that the early administration of allergenic products (for example, peanuts, eggs) in the diet of babies can reduce the risk of food allergies. However, it is necessary to consult a doctor before the introduction of allergenic products to infants, especially if they have risk factors for the development of allergies.

  2. The impact of environmental allergens: The effect of allergens of the environment, such as pollen, mites of domestic dust and mold, at an early age can sensitize the immune system and increase the risk of developing allergic rhinitis and asthma.

C. Environmental pollution

Environmental pollution, such as air pollution and the effects of tobacco smoke, can increase the risk of allergies.

  1. Air pollution: Air pollution can irritate the respiratory tract and increase their sensitivity to allergens, which can lead to the development of allergic asthma and rhinitis.

  2. Tobacco smoke: The effect of tobacco smoke, especially in early childhood, can increase the risk of allergic diseases such as asthma and atopic dermatitis.

D. Mother’s diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding

The mother’s diet during pregnancy and breastfeeding can affect the risk of allergies in the child.

  1. Restrictive diets: Restrictive diets that exclude certain allergenic products during pregnancy and breastfeeding are not recommended, since they have not proven their effectiveness in preventing allergies and can lead to a shortage of nutrients.

  2. A variety of diet: A variety of diet, including various food products, can contribute to the development of healthy intestinal microbiota in a child and reduce the risk of allergies.

IV. Allergy diagnostics

Allergies diagnostics include an anamnesis collection, physical examination and allergic tests.

A. Assembly of an anamnesis and physical examination

The doctor asks the patient about his symptoms, medical history, family history of allergies and factors that can cause or aggravate the symptoms. A physical examination can identify signs of allergies, such as rash, edema, runny nose or wheezing in the lungs.

B. Allergic tests

  1. Skin tests: Skin tests are the most common method of diagnosis of allergies. They include a small amount of allergen to the skin (usually on the forearm or back) and the performance of a small puncture or scratch. If the patient has an allergy to this allergen, redness and itching will appear on the skin.

  2. Blood test for Ige: A blood test for IGE measures the level of IgE antibodies to certain blood allergens. This test can be useful when skin tests are impossible (for example, with eczema or taking antihistamines) or when the results of skin tests are unclear.

  3. Provocative tests: Provocative tests include the introduction of an allergen into the body (for example, through a mouth, nose or respiratory tract) under strict medical control. These tests are carried out only if other tests do not give sufficient information and if there is a suspicion of severe allergies.

V. Treatment of allergies

The treatment of allergies is aimed at alleviating symptoms, preventing severe reactions and improving the quality of the patient.

A. The avoidance of allergens

The avoidance of allergens is the most effective way to prevent allergic reactions. This may include:

  1. Avoiding food allergens: A careful reading of food labels and the exclusion of products containing allergens from the diet.

  2. Avoiding environmental allergens: Taking measures to reduce the effects of pollen, ticks of domestic dust, mold and pets. This may include the use of air filters, regular cleaning of the house, washing bedding in hot water and avoiding places where there are many allergens.

B. Drug therapy

Drug therapy can help alleviate the symptoms of allergies.

  1. Antihistamines: Antihistamines block the effect of histamine, inflammation mediator released by fat cells and basophils. They can relieve symptoms of allergic rhinitis, urticaria and itching.

  2. Corticosteroids: Corticosteroids have anti -inflammatory effects and can be used to treat allergic diseases such as asthma, eczema and allergic rhinitis. They can be used locally (in the form of creams, ointments or nasal sprays) or systematically (in the form of tablets or injections).

  3. Decongestants: Decongestants narrow the blood vessels in the nose and facilitate the congestion of the nose. They can be used locally (in the form of nasal sprays) or systematically (in the form of tablets).

  4. Bronstillers: Bronstillers expand the respiratory tract and facilitate breathing with asthma. They are used in the form of inhalers.

  5. Material cell stabilizers: Map cell stabilizers prevent the release of histamine and other inflammation mediators from mast cells. They can be used to prevent allergic reactions.

C. Allergen-specific immunotherapy (AIS)

AIS (allergen-specific immunotherapy), also known as allergic injections, is a treatment that helps to desensitize the body to allergens. It includes the introduction of small doses of allergen over a long period of time, gradually increasing the dose. AIT can reduce the symptoms of allergies and reduce the need for drugs. AIT is available in the form of injections and sublingual tablets or drops.

D. Treatment of anaphylaxia

Anaphilaxia is a severe, potentially life -threatening allergic reaction. Treatment of anaphylaxia includes the introduction of adrenaline (epinephrine) and immediate medical care. People at the risk of anaphylaxia should always carry adrenaline autoinaline autoinaline with them and know how to use it.

VI. Allergy prevention

Allergy prevention, especially in children with a high risk of allergies, is an important task.

A. Preventive measures during pregnancy and breastfeeding

  1. A variety of mother’s diet: It is recommended to adhere to a variety of diets, not excluding allergenic products, if there are no medical indications.

  2. Avoiding smoking: Avoiding smoking during pregnancy and after childbirth.

B. Preventive measures in early childhood

  1. Breast-feeding: Breastfeeding is recommended during the first 4-6 months of life, if possible.

  2. Early introduction of allergenic products: Consideration of the possibility of early introduction of allergenic products (for example, peanuts, eggs) in the diet of a baby aged 4 to 6 months, after consulting a doctor.

  3. Maintaining healthy intestinal microbiots: Encouragement of the variety of intestinal microbiots with a diet rich in fiber, and the avoidance of unjustified use of antibiotics.

  4. Environmental control: Minimization of the effects of allergens of the environment, such as pollen, mites of domestic dust and mold.

VII. Allergies and prospects for the future

Studies in the field of allergies continue, and new methods of diagnosis and treatment are being developed.

A. New therapeutic approaches

  1. Biological drugs: Biological drugs, such as anti-IGE antibodies, block the specific components of the immune system involved in allergic reactions.

  2. Peptide immunotherapy: Peptide immunotherapy uses small fragments of allergenic proteins for the desensitization of the body to allergens.

  3. Immunotherapy using DNA: Immunotherapy using DNA includes the introduction of DNA encoding allergenic protein to stimulate an immune response that suppresses allergies.

  4. Modification of intestinal microbiots: New methods of modification of intestinal microbiots, such as transplantation of fecal microbiota, are developed for the treatment and prevention of allergies.

B. Personalized medicine in allergology

Personalized medicine in allergology involves the adaptation of diagnostic and treatment methods to the individual characteristics of the patient, such as the genetic profile and environmental factors. This can lead to more effective and safe methods for treating allergies.

VIII. Psychological aspects of allergies

An allergy can have a significant impact on mental health and quality of life.

A. Influence of allergies on the quality of life

  1. Physical restrictions: Symptoms of allergies can lead to physical restrictions, such as fatigue, difficulty breathing and itching, which can complicate the performance of everyday tasks.

  2. Social restrictions: The need to avoid allergens can lead to social restrictions, such as a refusal to participate in events related to food or stay in the open air.

  3. Emotional problems: An allergy can cause emotional problems, such as anxiety, depression and a sense of isolation.

B. Psychological support for people with allergies

  1. Training and counseling: Teaching patients and their families about allergies and ways to control it can help them cope with the disease and improve the quality of life.

  2. Support groups: Participation in support groups can help people with allergies feel less isolated and get support from other people who are faced with similar problems.

  3. Psychotherapy: Psychotherapy, such as cognitive-behavioral therapy (KPT), can help people with allergies cope with anxiety, depression and other emotional problems.

IX. Legal and social aspects of allergies

There are legal and social aspects related to allergies, especially in relation to food allergies.

A. Laws and rules regarding food allergies

  1. Food marking: Many countries have laws that require that food manufacturers indicate the presence of common food allergens on the labels.

  2. Protection of people with food allergies: Some countries have laws that protect people with food allergies from discrimination in schools, at work and in other public places.

B. The role of schools and kindergartens in allergies management

Schools and kindergartens play an important role in the management of allergies in children. They should have politicians and procedures to prevent the effects of allergens, the treatment of allergic reactions and the training of personnel and students about allergies.

C. The Information of the Society for Allergies

An increase in the awareness of an allergy society can help reduce stigma and improve understanding and support of people with allergies. This may include conducting educational campaigns, the organization of measures devoted to allergies, and support for research in the field of allergies.

X. Alternative and complementary methods for treating allergies

Some people with allergies use alternative and complementary treatment methods, such as travoing, acupuncture and homeopathy. However, evidence of the effectiveness of these methods is limited, and it is important to discuss their use with a doctor. Some alternative treatment methods can be dangerous, especially for people with severe allergies. It must be remembered that no alternative treatment can replace the standard medical treatment of allergies.

XI. Allergies and other diseases

Allergies are often associated with other diseases such as asthma, eczema, sinusitis and migraine. These diseases can aggravate the symptoms of allergies and worsen the quality of life. It is important to treat all related diseases in order to improve the overall state of health.

XII. Allergies in different age groups

Allergies can occur at any age, but some types of allergies are more common in certain age groups.

A. Allergies in children

Food allergies and eczema are most common in children. Many children develop food allergies, but some remain allergies for life.

B. Allergies in adults

Allergic rhinitis and asthma are most common in adults. Some adults can first develop allergies in adulthood.

C. Allergies in the elderly

An allergy in the elderly can be associated with the weakening of the immune system and the use of drugs. Symptoms of allergies in older people can be more serious and more difficult to succumb to treatment.

XIII. The effect of climate change on allergies

Climate change can affect allergies.

A. Increase in the pollen season: An increase in temperature can lead to an increase in the pollen season and an increase in the amount of pollen in the air, which can worsen the symptoms of allergic rhinitis and asthma.

B. Distribution of new allergens: Climate change can lead to the spread of new allergens to new regions, which can cause allergic reactions in people who have not previously been exposed to these allergens.

C. Increase in air pollution: Climate change can lead to an increase in air pollution, which can irritate the respiratory tract and increase their sensitivity to allergens, which can lead to the development of allergic asthma and rhinitis.

XIV. Conclusion

An allergy is a common and complex disease that can have a significant effect on the quality of life. Genetic predisposition and environmental factors play an important role in the development of allergies. Early diagnosis and treatment can help relieve symptoms, prevent severe reactions and improve the quality of life. Studies in the field of allergies continue, and new methods of diagnosis and treatment are being developed, which in the future can lead to more effective and safe allergies management methods. Preventive measures, especially in early childhood, can also help reduce the risk of allergies. It is important to remember that each case of allergies is unique, and treatment should be adapted to the individual needs of the patient.

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