A research team conducted a comprehensive genome analysis comparing Japanese and European populations, uncovering certain genetic regions (known as genetic polymorphisms) linked to allergic sensitization. Some genetic polymorphisms associated with sensitization were found in both groups, while others were unique to the Japanese population. Notably, the team identified genetic polymorphisms correlated with polysensitization for the first time. These discoveries are expected to contribute significantly to the creation of preventive and treatment options for allergic conditions.
People frequently encounter various environmental allergens like pollen, certain foods, and dust mites. In some individuals, their immune systems mistakenly identify these common allergens as harmful, leading to the creation of allergy-related antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). This phenomenon, where IgE is produced in response to common environmental allergens, is referred to as allergic sensitization. Since sensitization often occurs before allergic diseases manifest, it serves as a crucial indicator for assessing these conditions and developing prevention strategies.
The research team executed a genome-wide association study (GWAS) analyzing genetic data from 46,602 Japanese participants collected by the University of Tsukuba and Tohoku Medical Megabank. Through an extensive analysis, the researchers explored the relationship between genetic polymorphisms—individual genetic differences—and allergic sensitization status. They combined their results with GWAS data from a European group of 25,032 individuals to pinpoint genetic polymorphisms related to allergic sensitization.
In their findings, the team discovered 18 genetic polymorphisms unique to the Japanese cohort that are associated with sensitization and identified 23 polymorphisms through the combined analysis of both Japanese and European data sets. Additionally, this study marked the first GWAS focused on polysensitization (sensitization to multiple allergens), revealing eight genetic polymorphisms linked to this condition.
Further investigations showed that the genetic tendency towards allergic sensitization has a lesser impact on the development of atopic dermatitis compared to asthma, allergic rhinitis, and hay fever. These findings significantly enhance our understanding of the molecular mechanisms behind allergic diseases and hold potential for new preventive and therapeutic approaches.
This research received funding from the Japan Society for the Promotion of Science (JSPS, grant numbers 21J11802 and 23H03143), as well as the Japan Agency for Medical Research and Development (AMED, grant numbers JP20ek0410076 and JP21tm0424601).
