Novel vaccines for type i allergy

Abstract

Today, type I allergies affect more than 30% of the population in western industrialized countries posing an increasing burden on public health systems. In this book chapter we provide an overview on the molecular characteristics of allergens and the mechanisms of allergic sensitization. Risk factors for sensitization such as genetic predisposition or environmental factors (“hygiene hypothesis” are discussed and the current standards of diagnosis and medication are summarized. As classical allergen-specific immunotherapy suffers from unwanted side-effects, low patient compliance as well as insufficient efficacy, this chapter focuses on novel therapeutic approaches to overcome these limitations. These include new molecules, such as recombinant (hypo-) allergens or peptides but also advanced vector vaccines, and genetic vaccines. Such vaccine types address specific receptors of the innate immune system, resulting in increased immunogenicity and modulation of unwanted TH2 type responses. Finally, alternative routes to the standard subcutaneous injection or sublingual application are presented, which target highly immunocompetent tissues such as the skin or the lymph nodes.