Scientists at Australian National University have found an effective way to prevent autoimmune diseases and allergies in the body. It is based on the action of a specific protein called neuritin. This is reported in an article published in the journal Cell, and the scientific work is summarized in a press release on the MedicalXpress website.
According to experts, in the absence of neuritin, a person is more prone to death from anaphylaxis, which emphasizes the role of protein in preventing life-threatening allergic reactions. In allergies, the immune system overreacts to allergens such as pollen, dust, or peanut butter, and it produces antibodies called immunoglobulin E (IgE). In turn, the release of histamine occurs, causing redness and swelling.
Neuritin has been shown to prevent the overproduction of IgE commonly associated with some common forms of allergies and food intolerances. The substance also inhibits the formation of foreign plasma cells that produce harmful antibodies characteristic of autoimmune diseases.
Scientists hope that the discovery will enable the development of effective methods to combat autoimmune diseases and allergies without weakening the immune system.