Allergies

Research

7 pages, 257 KB

Open AccessArticle

by Lara Barros, Diana Arantes, Leonor Nora and Inês Pádua

Allergies 2026, 6(1), 9; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies6010009 - 11 Mar 2026

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Background: Current recommendations for infant weaning suggest the early introduction of solid and diverse foods. Although homemade meals are advisable, there is a demand for commercially available complementary foods (CACFs), and the information present on their labeling influences caregivers’ choices. The aim of [...] Read more.

Background: Current recommendations for infant weaning suggest the early introduction of solid and diverse foods. Although homemade meals are advisable, there is a demand for commercially available complementary foods (CACFs), and the information present on their labeling influences caregivers’ choices. The aim of this study was to evaluate recommended-age-of-introduction labeling of CACFs in the Portuguese market, in light of current guidelines for complementary feeding. Methods: Between November and December 2025, labels of all CACFs found in infant feeding sections of 13 Portuguese grocery retailers were analyzed. Milk formulas, powders, products for children over 15 months, and those for children with food allergies or intolerances were excluded. Results: Of the 539 products analyzed, 458 showed a recommended age for introduction, ranging from 4 to 12 months, with significant variability being observed between food categories. Significant variability was also observed in the recommended age for introduction depending on whether major allergens were present. Conclusions: The results of our study identified an age-segmented approach to complementary feeding recommendations in CACF labeling, not reflecting current infant feeding guidelines that support complementary feeding. Our results reinforce the need for more support from scientific evidence and health guidelines in food availability and marketing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

14 pages, 1686 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Development and Optimization of a LAMP Assay for Lupin Detection in Foods

by Marta Trujillo, Beatriz Beroiz, Carmen Cuadrado, Rosario Linacero and Isabel Ballesteros

Allergies 2026, 6(1), 1; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies6010001 - 28 Dec 2025

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Abstract

Lupin (Lupinus spp.) is increasingly incorporated into processed foods as a gluten-free ingredient and alternative protein source, but it is also a regulated allergen in the European Union due to cross-reactivity with other legumes, especially peanut. Reliable methods for detecting undeclared lupin [...] Read more.

Lupin (Lupinus spp.) is increasingly incorporated into processed foods as a gluten-free ingredient and alternative protein source, but it is also a regulated allergen in the European Union due to cross-reactivity with other legumes, especially peanut. Reliable methods for detecting undeclared lupin traces in complex food matrices are therefore essential for consumer protection. In this study, a loop-mediated isothermal amplification (LAMP) assay was developed for rapid and sensitive detection of lupin DNA. Several nuclear and chloroplast regions were evaluated for primer design, and gene encoding the Lup a 1 allergen was selected as the optimal target. Amplification was monitored by real-time fluorescence, agarose gel electrophoresis, and visual colorimetry. The selected primer set achieved a detection limit of 25 pg of lupin DNA and consistently detected lupin in binary mixtures down to 10 mg/kg, with no cross-reactivity against closely related legumes or tree nuts. Application to processed foods confirmed detection in products declaring lupin and revealed potential undeclared presence in some commercial samples. Colorimetric detection provided reliable results comparable to real-time monitoring, enabling simple readouts without specialized equipment. Overall, the developed LAMP assay represents a rapid, specific, and sensitive alternative to PCR-based methods for allergen monitoring and food safety management. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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12 pages, 459 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Retrospective Study on Acute Effects of Mount Etna Volcanic Eruption in Patients with Atopic Dermatitis

by Federica Trovato, Antonio Di Guardo, Alessandra Rallo, Annunziata Dattola, Elena Zappia, Steven Paul Nisticò and Giovanni Pellacani

Allergies 2025, 5(3), 27; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies5030027 - 8 Aug 2025

Viewed by 1892

Abstract

Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is Europe’s most active volcano. Over the past five years, it has experienced numerous significant eruptive episodes, with the most recent occurring in August 2024. During this event, substantial amounts of volcanic ash were [...] Read more.

Mount Etna, located on the eastern coast of Sicily, is Europe’s most active volcano. Over the past five years, it has experienced numerous significant eruptive episodes, with the most recent occurring in August 2024. During this event, substantial amounts of volcanic ash were dispersed over densely populated areas, particularly in the province of Catania. Environmental factors, such as volcanic eruptions, are known to influence inflammatory skin conditions, including atopic dermatitis. We analyzed a cohort of patients with atopic dermatitis who were exposed to volcanic ash during the Mount Etna eruption in August 2024, aiming to evaluate the impact of the eruption on respiratory and cutaneous symptoms, treatment response, use of protective equipment, and changes in EASI scores over an eight-week period. A total of 67 Caucasian atopic dermatitis patients (mean age 41.2) were assessed after a volcanic eruption. Symptom worsening occurred in 58.9% (respiratory) and 26.9% (skin) of patients. EASI scores significantly increased (p < 0.05). No clinical difference was found between treatment types or mask use, which did not prevent symptom exacerbation. Volcanic ash exposure significantly worsened respiratory and skin symptoms in atopic dermatitis patients, underscoring the need for improved protective measures and further research on environmental triggers of chronic inflammatory conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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10 pages, 658 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceArticle

Pneumococcal Vaccine in Patients with Recurrent Infections

by Mariana de Gouveia-Pereira Pimentel, Carolina Sanchez Aranda, Rafaela Rola Guimarães, Edson Kiyotaka Ishizuka, Dirceu Solé and Antônio Condino-Neto

Allergies 2025, 5(2), 21; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies5020021 - 18 Jun 2025

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Abstract

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the immunological response to the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) in patients investigated for immunodeficiencies due to recurrent infections at EPM-UNIFESP Clinical Immunology outpatient clinic. Methods: This is a longitudinal retrospective study. Data were collected from the [...] Read more.

Purpose: This study aimed to evaluate the immunological response to the 23-valent pneumococcal polysaccharide vaccine (PPV23) in patients investigated for immunodeficiencies due to recurrent infections at EPM-UNIFESP Clinical Immunology outpatient clinic. Methods: This is a longitudinal retrospective study. Data were collected from the medical records of patients between 2012 and 2020. The analyses were developed in two stages: before and after administration of the PPV23 vaccine. Results: A total of 390 patients who received the PPV23 vaccine were selected. Among those who demonstrated an adequate serological response (63.6%), there was a notable decrease in the risk of upper respiratory tract infections (URTI) by 66%, tonsillitis by 74%, otitis by 76%, sinusitis by 49%, and uncomplicated pneumonia (PNM) by 77%. For invasive infections, the risk reduction was 95% for pneumonia with parapneumonic effusion and 93% for meningitis. Conclusions: The study demonstrated a significant decrease in the risk of bacterial infections following the administration of the PPV23 vaccine in this population. Therefore, we recommend including PPV23 in the vaccination schedule following pneumococcal conjugated vaccines for patients with recurrent pneumococcal infections to enhance protection and avoid complications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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14 pages, 3214 KB

Open AccessArticle

Effects of Triacetin on AMPK Activation and Immune Responses in Allergic Contact Dermatitis

by Yukihiro Yoshimura and Momoka Takahashi

Allergies 2024, 4(4), 254-267; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies4040017 - 16 Dec 2024

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3034

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), an inflammatory skin condition, is commonly treated with topical corticosteroids; however, long-term use of these drugs is associated with various risks, such as skin atrophy and steroid resistance. Triacetin (TA), a triglyceride metabolized to acetate, exerts anti-inflammatory affects [...] Read more.

Background/Objectives: Allergic contact dermatitis (ACD), an inflammatory skin condition, is commonly treated with topical corticosteroids; however, long-term use of these drugs is associated with various risks, such as skin atrophy and steroid resistance. Triacetin (TA), a triglyceride metabolized to acetate, exerts anti-inflammatory affects by activating AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK) and suppressing mast cell degranulation. Here, we aimed to assess the immediate and long-term effects of TA on ACD suppression, focusing on AMPK activation, using a 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced rodent model. Methods: Various concentrations of TA were topically applied to rats with 2,4-dinitrofluorobenzene-induced dermatitis. Ear thickness was measured, and histological analysis was performed to assess the inflammation, mast cell infiltration, and degranulation in the established models. AMPK activation was analyzed via Western blotting, and TA degradation was assessed via gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. Dorsomorphin (an AMPK inhibitor) was used to evaluate the effects of AMPK on ACD. Results: TA significantly inhibited inflammation and mast cell degranulation in a dose-dependent manner, with 0.25 mmol/L showing the most potent effects. It also activated AMPK activation. Notably, AMPK inhibition reversed the effects of TA. Conclusions: Overall, TA exerted immediate and long-term anti-inflammatory effects via AMPK activation and inhibition of mast cell degranulation, showing potential as a non-steroidal therapeutic for ACD. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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Review

Jump to: Research, Other

11 pages, 377 KB

Open AccessReview

Are Rhinitis and Asthma Just One Disease Affecting Different Parts of the Respiratory Tract?

by Victor Alexandru, Felicia Manole and Alexia Manole

Allergies 2025, 5(4), 34; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies5040034 - 3 Oct 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 3215

Abstract

Both allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps have important factors in common with asthma. They are often present simultaneously, they have similar pathogenesis processes, and they have synergistic effects on the clinical manifestations. There are also important considerations regarding [...] Read more.

Both allergic rhinitis and chronic rhinosinusitis with or without nasal polyps have important factors in common with asthma. They are often present simultaneously, they have similar pathogenesis processes, and they have synergistic effects on the clinical manifestations. There are also important considerations regarding the common treatment of these pathologies. Taking all these into account, it is possible to place these diseases under the “united airway disease” umbrella. However, matters such as embryologic origins, anatomy and function of the upper and lower airways, as well as cases where the aforementioned pathologies can be observed independently and have different treatment responses, make up reasonable counterarguments for the “united airway disease”. This narrative review attempts to put all these factors into perspective for a slightly better understanding of the complexity of this topic. We will take into consideration factors such as epidemiological data, pathogenesis and pathology, clinical considerations, and the benefits of a common treatment. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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17 pages, 268 KB

Open AccessEditor’s ChoiceReview

Exploring the Link Between Allergies and Neurological Diseases: Unveiling the Hidden Connections

by Kamila Saramak

Allergies 2025, 5(2), 18; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies5020018 - 3 Jun 2025

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 5651

Abstract

The interplay between allergic diseases and neurological disorders has gained increasing attention over the past decades, highlighting potential shared pathophysiological pathways. Allergic diseases, including asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis, are characterized by chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation, which may impact the pathogenesis of [...] Read more.

The interplay between allergic diseases and neurological disorders has gained increasing attention over the past decades, highlighting potential shared pathophysiological pathways. Allergic diseases, including asthma, eczema, and allergic rhinitis, are characterized by chronic inflammation and immune dysregulation, which may impact the pathogenesis of certain neurological conditions. Emerging evidence suggests that conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), migraine, epilepsy, neurodegenerative diseases, and neurodevelopmental disorders may be influenced by systemic inflammation and altered immune responses associated with allergies. The purpose of this paper is to provide an overview of current epidemiological evidence suggesting a relationship between allergic and neurological diseases. Understanding the complex interactions between allergic and neurological diseases could provide new insights into their aetiology and reveal novel therapeutic targets, paving the way for integrated approaches in managing comorbid allergic and neurological conditions, ultimately improving patient outcomes and quality of life. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

Other

Jump to: Research, Review

13 pages, 620 KB

Open AccessSystematic Review

The Potential Link Between Food Allergies and the Insurgence of Allergic and Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review

by Luigi Cofone and Marise Sabato

Allergies 2026, 6(1), 6; https://doi.org/10.3390/allergies6010006 - 14 Feb 2026

Viewed by 465

Abstract

Introduction: The potential role of food hypersensitivity in the insurgence of inflammatory activity in arthritis such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has received intermittent attention, also supported by theoretical links involving mucosal immunity, mast-cell activation, and microbiome–immune interactions. Despite biological plausibility, the clinical significance [...] Read more.

Introduction: The potential role of food hypersensitivity in the insurgence of inflammatory activity in arthritis such as Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA) has received intermittent attention, also supported by theoretical links involving mucosal immunity, mast-cell activation, and microbiome–immune interactions. Despite biological plausibility, the clinical significance of dietary antigens in RA remains uncertain. Methods: A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Searches using PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science identified studies exploring dietary interventions or food hypersensitivity in RA. Eligible articles included clinical trials, case reports, and observational studies, in English or Italian, up to the 10 December 2025. Data extraction and quality assessment were performed using the Newcastle–Ottawa Scale. Results: Eight studies met the inclusion criteria. Findings indicate that elimination or elemental diets occasionally yielded subjective improvements—such as a reduction in pain, morning stiffness, and functional improvements—yet objective inflammatory markers rarely changed. Small, highly selected, cohorts demonstrated immuno-histological alterations, including reduced mast-cell density, while long-term diets (e.g., gluten-free or vegan) have reduced specific IgG levels without altering radiographic progression. Conclusions: Evidence suggests that dietary interventions may offer symptomatic relief only in a minority of RA patients. Due to methodological constraints, inconsistent outcomes, and limited applicability to contemporary treatments, dietary approaches need further exploration and investigation. Rigorous trials in modern cohorts are warranted to clarify whether food hypersensitivity meaningfully influences RA pathophysiology. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Feature Papers 2025)

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