Cellular and molecular pathways through which commensal bacteria modulate sensitization to dietary antigens.

Cellular and molecular pathways through which commensal bacteria modulate sensitization to dietary antigens. Curr Opin Immunol. 2014 Dec;31C:79-86 Authors: Feehley T, Nagler CR Abstract Food allergies are a growing public health concern. The rapidly increasing prevalence of allergic disease cannot be explained by genetic variation alone, suggesting a role for gene-by-environment interactions. The bacteria that colonize barrier surfaces, often referred to as the commensal microbiota, are dramatically affected by environmental factors and have a major impact on host health and homeostasis. Increasing evidence suggests that alterations in the composition of the microbiota, caused by factors such as antibiotic use and diet, are contributing to increased sensitization to dietary antigens. This review will discuss the cellular and molecular pathways activated by commensal bacteria to protect against allergic sensitization. By understanding the interplay between the environment, the microbiota, and the host, we may uncover novel therapeutic targets that will allow us to control the allergy epidemic. PMID: 25458998 [PubMed - as supplied by publisher]
Source: Current Opinion in Immunology - Category: Allergy & Immunology Authors: Tags: Curr Opin Immunol Source Type: research