Epigenetic determinants of allergy and tolerance

SummaryNot only genetics and environmental factors are responsible for the development of allergies. Epigenetic mechanisms — that are master regulators of gene transcription and thus of the accessibility and use of genome information — have been identified as a third power that is key in determining many features of allergy. So far, three epigenetic mechanisms have been identified in humans: histone modification, DN A methylation, and posttranscriptional modification by microRNA (miRNA) or small interferingRNA (siRNA). In recent years, it became clear that epigenetic regulation of gene function does not only play a role in the development of allergy but may also play a key role in the induction of tolerance against allergens, holding the promise to truly heal or prevent atopic diseases in the future.
Source: Allergo Journal International - Category: Allergy & Immunology Source Type: research